Sweden Takes Action to Strengthen Security Measures Amid Rising Threat of Terrorism
In light of an increasingly deteriorating security situation, Sweden has announced plans to enhance its efforts in preventing radicalization and countering the spread of violent extremism. The country now faces a heightened threat of attacks from both terrorists and violent extremists, necessitating further measures to ensure the safety of its citizens.
To address these challenges, the Crime Prevention Council (Brå) has been entrusted with the task of intensifying collaboration between authorities and relevant actors. This collaboration aims to bolster preventive work against radicalization and violent extremism, operating within the framework of the Center against violent extremism (CVE) at Brå.
Recognizing the urgent need to enhance the preventive work against violent extremism, particular emphasis will be placed on fostering dialogue and implementing safety-oriented measures. The deteriorating security policy situation in Sweden necessitates a comprehensive and long-term approach that not only directly addresses immediate threats but also strengthens the country’s overall resilience.
Gunnar Strömmer, Minister of Justice, voiced his concern over the current security situation, affirming the need for measures that effectively respond to these challenges while building long-term resilience. Strömmer emphasized the pivotal role of the Center against Violent Extremism in this preventive work, asserting that the recent assignment would further intensify their efforts.
Jonas Trolle, the director of the Center against Violent Extremism, welcomed the government’s commitment to strengthening preventive work and fostering cooperation among authorities. He stressed the importance of reinforcement in the face of shared security challenges, highlighting the need for collaboration between different sectors in society.
The assigned objectives include strengthening collaboration between national authorities, developing coordination across national, regional, and local levels, and enhancing dialogue between authorities, religious communities, and other actors in civil society.
The assignment commences immediately and will be conducted in collaboration with various agencies, including the Authority for Community Protection and Preparedness, the Authority for Support to Religious Communities, the Authority for Psychological Defense, the Authority for Youth and Civil Society Affairs, the Police Authority, the National Board of Health and Welfare, and the Security Police. Additionally, dialogue will be initiated with faith communities and other relevant actors, such as associations and organizations in civil society, as well as Sweden’s municipalities and regions.
The government has set a deadline for the completion of the assignment, requiring a report to be submitted to the Ministry of Justice at the Government Office no later than August 29, 2024. Through these proactive measures, Sweden aims to enhance its security landscape and protect its citizens from the evolving threat of terrorism and violent extremism.