Title: Swedish Government Faces More Intense Crisis with Koran Burnings, Says Former PM Carl Bildt
Subtitle: The current situation poses a significant security threat to Swedish interests
Date: [Date]
In a recent interview with TT (Tidningarnas Telegrambyrå), former Swedish Prime Minister Carl Bildt compared the current crisis faced by the Kristersson government with a similar situation the Reinfeldt government encountered in 2007. However, Bildt stated that today’s crisis, marked by Koran burnings, is far worse.
“Burning the Koran is more symbolic and much more emotional than Lars Vilk’s drawing was,” said Bildt, referring to the controversial drawing depicting Muhammad as a patrol dog by artist Lars Vilks. He added that there is a risk of escalating tensions with the possibility of more Koran burnings.
Bildt warned, “Then I think we could end up in a purely explosive situation. It is a quite significant security threat to Swedish interests.”
Reflecting on the 2007 controversy, which led to strong reactions and threats against Vilks and Nerikes Allehanda’s editor-in-chief, Bildt emphasized the importance of dialogue to help deescalate the situation. He recalled former Prime Minister Fredrik Reinfeldt’s efforts, including engaging with ambassadors of various Muslim countries and addressing Muslims at a mosque in Stockholm.
The current government led by Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson and Foreign Minister Tobias Billström has been restrained in their statements following the recent Koran burnings. This measured approach aims to cool down the situation and ensure the safety of Swedes and Swedish interests abroad, while also addressing security concerns within Sweden.
Learning from the 2007 incident and subsequent Danish controversy over Muhammad cartoons, the Swedish government strategized to prioritize dialogue and security. Assuaging concerns about the security situation, Bildt noted that personnel may be recalled from embassies or provided with increased protection if necessary.
However, Bildt acknowledged the complexity of crises related to religion, which present a challenge for politicians and diplomats compared to conflicts centered on substantive issues. “It is outside the traditional state-to-state diplomacy and is therefore much more difficult,” he said.
As Sweden grapples with the aftermath of the Koran burnings, the government will continue to navigate these complex dynamics to protect its interests while seeking to promote dialogue and calm amidst rising tensions.