The Constitution of Sweden and personal privacy

The Swedish Security Service has raised the terrorist threat level from level 3 (‘elevated’) to level 4 (‘high’) on a 5-level scale. In light of the deteriorating security situation, the Government is working intensively and constantly to take the necessary measures.

The Government has decided to appoint an Inquiry Chair to examine whether Sweden’s security could be considered when examining permit applications and setting conditions for public gatherings under the Public Order Act.

In Sweden, freedom of expression and demonstration are protected by the Constitution. Freedom of expression is one of the foundations of the Swedish state. Freedom of expression, freedom of information,  freedom to demonstrate and freedom of assembly are therefore central rights in our democracy. The individual’s right to freedom of religion is also strongly protected by the Constitution.

A constitutional amendment that enters into force on 1 January 2023 will allow limitations on freedom of association for groups engaged in terrorism. This means that Sweden will be able to combat terrorism in new and broader ways.

The Public Access to Information and Secrecy Act, which entered into force on 30 June 2009, contains provisions that supplement the provisions contained in the Freedom of the Press Act on the right to obtain official documents, for example provisions on the obligation of public authorities to register official documents, appeals against decisions of authorities, etc.

The remit has been tasked with reviewing the criminal law regulations regarding racist and similar symbols and, if necessary, proposing amendments.

This fact sheet contains a brief presentation of the Swedish law-making process.