Social Democrats unveil over 200 proposals for Sweden’s future at press conference

On Tuesday, the Social Democratic Party introduced over 200 proposals developed by eleven working groups, with efforts beginning in spring 2023. Among the proposals are stricter integration policies, the abolition of the EBO system (which allows asylum seekers to choose their accommodation), new measures for young offenders, Swedish anti-mafia legislation, a program for at-risk families, a mobile phone ban in schools, and the presence of police officers in every municipality. However, Tobias Baudin, the party’s leader, declined to identify any single most important issue or direction for the party.

Baudin emphasized that the party leadership will prioritize proposals to present at the upcoming congress next year, where discussions will focus on a comprehensive new platform for Sweden.

One notable proposal that has already garnered attention is the recommendation for a reduced working week of 35 hours to be implemented by 2035. Critics argue this initiative is costly and complex. “Working hours are a matter of respect for employees,” Baudin stated. He confirmed that discussions will continue within the party as they prepare for the congress.

During the press conference, Baudin faced repeated questions on whether the Social Democrats are shifting to the left or right but refrained from providing a definitive answer. He maintained that the focus is on addressing significant societal issues like inequality and crime, affirming that financial discipline will remain a priority for the party.

The proposals will form the basis for the party’s policy decisions at the next congress. Baudin noted that by 2025, the party aims to adopt a completely new program, marking it as the tenth iteration. Proposed policies include a total ban on relocation of newcomers to vulnerable areas, income requirements for moving to such areas, advantages for academics in housing queues, language requirements for preschool staff, free public transport for youth, and increased infrastructure budgets, among others.