An open society
Swedish laws and rights protect openness, equality and tolerance. This includes freedom of the press, the right to take part in demonstrations, freedom of speech, freedom of religion, same-sex marriage, the opportunity to move freely in the countryside and the right to question those in power. Sweden aims to be an equal society where everyone is welcome.
A free press pioneer
In 1766, Sweden implemented the world's first freedom of press act. Then and today, Swedish citizens who provide publishers, editors and news agencies with information are entitled to so-called source protection, or anonymity protection, meaning journalists can never be forced to reveal their sources.
Exchanging ideas
Outside the media, there is also freedom of expression and the right to demonstrate, both of which are intended to secure a free exchange of views, information and artistic creativity. With between 10,000 and 15,000 Swedish blogs today, it seems that Swedish residents definitely take advantage of their freedom of expression.
To ensure a civil public discourse, Swedish laws protect groups and individuals against hateful or discriminatory speech.
Transparent governance
The principle of public access (offentlighetsprincipen) means that the general public and the mass media have access to official records. This grants Swedish citizens insight into the activities of government and local authorities. Those who work for the government are free to share their knowledge and information with the media or public, which helps create a transparent and accountable system between the people and the state.
Nature — a universal right
Public access extends to nature as well. The Swedish right of public access (allemansrätten) gives people the freedom to roam and camp on privately owned land, as long as care and consideration are given to nature, animals, landowners and other people. The Swedish National Environmental Protection Agency (Naturvårdsverket) summarizes this right with the phrase “no disturbing — no destroying.”
Learn more about the right of public access
Accessibility for all
Swedish disability policies make sure that people with disabilities also have the opportunity to exercise their rights as citizens, and to fulfill their obligations. Buses are equipped for wheelchairs, crosswalks give audible signals for the blind, and children with disabilities are encouraged to attend compulsory school in specially designed classes provided in the same school as other children. Almost all people with disabilities in Sweden live in their own homes, and the majority of children with disabilities grow up at home with their own families.
Marriage rights and equality
On May 1, 2009, same-sex marriages were legalized in Sweden. A few months later, the Church of Sweden also showed its support. Gay and lesbian couples have been permitted to have registered partnerships in Sweden since 1995, but people in same-sex marriages now have the same legal status as people in heterosexual marriages and can also choose to get married in church. A majority of the Swedish population supported this movement.