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

70 sidor.