Sweden heads to the polls on Sunday in an extremely close election that could see the far right enter government for the first time if the country's rightwing parties can secure a majority.
Key facts
- Sweden votes on Sunday in a tightly contested election.
- The latest poll shows a 0.3-point gap between the left and right blocs.
- The centre-left opposition alliance is narrowly ahead in opinion polls.
- Magdalena Andersson of the Social Democrats is the favourite to become prime minister.
- The far right could enter government for the first time if rightwing parties form a majority.
Sweden goes to the polls on Sunday in what is shaping up to be an extremely close election, one that could see the far right enter government for the first time if the country’s rightwing parties are able to form a majority, according to the Guardian.
The latest opinion poll shows a gap of just 0.3 points between the left and right blocs, underscoring how tight the contest has become as voters prepare to cast their ballots.
Opinion polls show the centre-left opposition alliance ahead, with Magdalena Andersson of the Social Democrats the favourite to become prime minister again after four years in opposition. However, her bloc’s lead has narrowed considerably in the final days of the campaign.
The Guardian reports that the country’s reputation as a global champion of human rights is said to be at stake in the outcome of the vote.
With the two blocs separated by such a slim margin, the result may remain uncertain until votes are counted, and the shape of Sweden’s next government could hinge on whether the rightwing parties can assemble a governing majority.
Why it matters
Sweden has long been seen internationally as a champion of human rights, and this election could mark the first time the far right enters government. The extremely narrow gap between the blocs means the outcome, and the country's political direction, remains genuinely uncertain.
Frequently asked questions
When does Sweden vote?
Sweden goes to the polls on Sunday, according to the Guardian.
Who is favourite to become prime minister?
Magdalena Andersson of the Social Democrats is the favourite to become prime minister again after four years in opposition, though her bloc's lead has narrowed in the final days of the campaign.
How close is the race?
The latest poll shows just a 0.3-point gap between the left and right blocs, making the election extremely close.