Sweden Plans to Revoke Citizenship for National Security Threats

Sweden Plans to Revoke Citizenship for National Security Threats

Sweden is preparing to introduce sweeping changes to its citizenship laws, enabling the government to revoke citizenship from individuals deemed a threat to national security. The proposed amendments, aimed at combating violent extremism, hostile state actors, and organized crime, represent a significant shift in the country’s approach to internal security.

Parliament House, Stockholm

Key Proposals in Sweden’s Citizenship Reforms

Under the new plans, the Swedish government intends to amend the constitution to permit the removal of citizenship from dual nationals who commit serious crimes against the state, such as espionage, treason, or terrorism. Individuals who obtained Swedish citizenship fraudulently would also be subject to revocation.

Swedish Justice Minister Gunnar Strommer speaks during a press conference in Copenhagen, Denmark, August 21, 2024. REUTERS/Tom Little/File Photo

The reforms primarily target dual citizens to avoid violating international laws that prohibit rendering individuals stateless. Citizens holding only Swedish nationality will not face the threat of revocation.

Cross-Party Support and Opposition

While a cross-party committee has endorsed the proposals, there is dissent from certain political factions. The Left Party and the Greens have expressed concerns, arguing that the measures could promote intolerance and create challenges in defining what constitutes a threat to national security.

The Swedish parliament is set to vote on the proposed changes next year, with an implementation goal of June 2026.

Addressing Security Challenges

Over the past two decades, Sweden has faced considerable challenges related to immigration and integration, with nearly 20% of its population born abroad. The current government, supported by the anti-immigration Sweden Democrats, has prioritized reducing immigration and addressing gang-related crime.

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In addition to the citizenship revocation measures, Sweden plans to encourage voluntary repatriation by offering financial incentives. Starting in 2026, immigrants could receive up to 350,000 Swedish kronor (approximately $34,000) to return to their home countries.

Tighter Citizenship Requirements

Sweden is also increasing the requirements for citizenship applications. Prospective citizens will need to reside in the country for at least eight years and pass tests demonstrating proficiency in the Swedish language and knowledge of Swedish society.

Criteria for Threat Assessments

Determining who poses a threat to national security involves a structured process, evaluating individuals based on the following:

1. • Identifying concerning behaviors, such as violent extremism or pre-attack indicators like increased aggression or expressions of intent to harm.
   • Assessing risk-enhancing factors like past violent actions or exposure to extremist ideologies while considering risk-mitigating factors like strong social networks.
   • Evaluating an individual’s intent to harm and their ability to carry out threats, including access to resources and skill.
   • Ensuring assessments respect constitutional rights and do not discriminate based on race, religion, or national origin
   • Involving law enforcement, intelligence agencies, mental health professionals, and community organizations to gain a comprehensive understanding of potential risks.

Comparison with Other European Countries

Sweden’s proposed reforms reflect broader European trends in addressing security threats through citizenship laws. Here’s how Sweden’s approach compares to other nations:

Denmark

Denmark’s laws allow citizenship revocation for acts seriously threatening the state, including severe gang-related offenses. Sweden is reportedly using Denmark’s model as a reference for its reforms.

United Kingdom

The UK has robust powers to revoke citizenship, particularly for individuals engaged in terrorism or other serious crimes. Unlike Sweden, the UK’s existing legal framework does not require constitutional amendments for these actions.

Germany

Germany permits revocation of citizenship in cases of fraud or actions against the state but exercises this power more cautiously. Its approach focuses on specific threats rather than broad national security concerns.

Sweden’s proposed measures aim to strengthen national security while challenging the complexities of constitutional rights and international law. With the parliamentary vote slated for next year, the reforms signify a important moment in the country’s efforts to address security challenges and redefine its approach to citizenship.