Sweden Plans to Revoke Citizenship for National Security Threats

Swedish political parties are considering a draft law that would allow the revocation of citizenship from individuals with dual nationality if they pose a threat to national security or commit serious crimes. This initiative, introduced by the ruling center-right coalition, aims to combat rising organized crime and extremism, according to Schengen News.

Key Provisions of the Initiative

Dual Citizenship Requirement: Revocation would only apply to individuals with dual citizenship, eliminating the risk of rendering anyone stateless.
Targeted Violations: The proposed violations include terrorism, bribery, providing false information to obtain citizenship, and other offenses deemed a threat to national security. Only those convicted of such crimes would be subject to citizenship revocation.
Justice Minister Gunnar Strömmer noted that Sweden is facing a rise in "systematic organized crime," as well as "violent extremism and hostile actions by foreign entities." Migration Minister Johan Forssell added that in 2024, there were approximately 600 cases where citizenship applications were submitted by individuals considered threats to national security.

Political Reactions

The initiative has sparked debate among Swedish politicians. Center-right parties, including the Sweden Democrats, have voiced strong support for the draft law, citing its necessity to combat the surge in crimes, particularly murders and explosions linked to criminal gangs. Left-leaning and Green parties oppose the revocation of citizenship, labeling it an excessive measure. The center-left opposition argues that efforts to tackle crime should focus on enhancing law enforcement rather than curbing citizens' rights.

The justice minister acknowledged that the proposed measures are insufficient to target criminal network leaders operating outside Sweden but orchestrating illegal activities within the country.

Broader Context

Sweden is not the first country to consider stricter requirements for citizenship and mechanisms for revocation. Danish authorities have previously proposed checks for anti-democratic views, including antisemitism and homophobia, among citizenship applicants. Denmark’s integration minister emphasized the importance of such measures to safeguard democracy.

Following terrorist attacks across Europe, many nations have tightened controls on citizenship applicants, including expanded checks for extremist beliefs and ties to terrorist organizations. Currently, Sweden’s Constitution does not allow for the revocation of citizenship. However, if parliament approves the proposed amendments, the draft law could be enacted as early as 2025.

Sweden is taking steps to adapt its migration and legal policies to new national security challenges. Introducing a mechanism for revoking citizenship for dual nationals could strengthen security but has raised significant debates about human rights and the effectiveness of such measures. Amid rising crime and extremism, the country seeks a balance between protecting national interests and upholding democratic principles.