Country Report
Illustration: Evelina Johansson
Country Report: The Power of words: Future ChallENGES for freedom of expression.
Freedom of expression is under pressure across the world, facing a number of new and old threats. Authoritarian forces are gaining control, even in countries that have been regarded as democracies. Nationalists and extremists are challenging political systems. Writers and journalists are being harassed, persecuted, and killed. Governmental control and surveillance are increasing. Hate speech is poisoning public debate, causing growing fear and self-censorship. Those who write about new challenges to humankind, such as climate change and the environment – too often face harassments and threats, even to their life. This is an alarming development since we cannot act or practice our democratic rights without access to information. This report offers an overview of the state of freedom of expression in Sweden, showing a country approaching a crossroads. Sweden still has a strong and deeply entrenched commitment to preserving freedom of expression. Ranking, in all relevant indices, among the best in the world; but something is simmering beneath the surface. And things are developing rapidly. Organisations like PEN are more important today than ever before.
CONTENTS
Freedom of Expression Cannot be Taken for Granted
Jesper Bengtsson
The Right to Blasphemy — Part of Freedom of Expression
Ulrika Knutson
Online Hate Crimes are on the rise but many remain Unreported
Christina Jutterström
Conspiracy Theories — A Threat to Democracy
Kent Werne
Three Major Threats to Swedish Public Broadcasting — Increasingly Politically Contested
Jesper Strömbäck
Protection of Freedom of Expression at risk due to new laws
Nils Funcke
Swedish Citizens Abroad — Prisoners of the Dictatorship
Elisabeth Löfgren
Chinese Influence on Swedish Media
Jojje Olsson
Surveillance of Citizens’ Digital Lives in Rapid Change
Mattias Beijmo
The Power of Words – Future Challenges for Freedom of Expression was the theme for PEN international’s 88th congress, taking place in Uppsala 27 September – 1 October 2022. This report is published in conjunction with the congress.
All articles have been translated from Swedish by Samuel Teeland.
Editor: Ninni Dickson
Creative Director: Jonathan Brott
Layout & Design: Johan Rutherhagen
Illustrations by: Evelina Johansson
