Sweden’s political parties have reached an agreement on revoking citizenship for dual nationals who commit crimes that threaten national security. A cross-party committee recommended applying this to individuals who obtained citizenship through fraudulent means, such as bribery or false information, as well as those committing offenses against the state or falling under the jurisdiction of the International Criminal Court (ICC).
However, the committee rejected the government’s proposal to extend this policy to gang members. Justice Minister Gunnar Strömmer highlighted the country’s challenges, including violent extremism, hostile actions by foreign states, and systemic organized crime.
Currently, Sweden’s constitution prohibits revoking citizenship, but a parliamentary vote to amend this is scheduled for next year. Some opposition parties, particularly the Left and Green parties, oppose the proposal entirely, arguing it would be difficult to define and enforce. Centre-left opposition parties also oppose extending the measure to gang criminals, saying it would be too far-reaching.
The centre-right governing coalition, supported by the anti-immigration Sweden Democrats, backs the reforms as a response to rising gang violence and a surge in gun-related killings. Justice Minister Strömmer expressed disappointment that the recommendations don’t allow for stripping gang leaders, often based abroad, of their Swedish citizenship.
The government has drawn comparisons with Denmark, where citizenship can be revoked for acts severely detrimental to national interests, a law recently expanded to include serious gang crimes.
Sweden’s government also plans to tighten its citizenship application process. Migration Minister Johan Forssell revealed that in 2022, police flagged 600 applicants as potential national security threats. Starting in June 2026, applicants will generally need to have lived in Sweden for eight years instead of the current five and must pass tests on Swedish language and society.
Forssell emphasized that becoming a Swedish citizen should carry greater significance, saying, “We aim to create a more cohesive society where citizenship truly matters.” He also underscored Sweden’s cultural values, stating, “In Sweden, girls and boys have the right to swim and play football. If you can’t accept that, this isn’t the place for you.”
Jimmie Åkesson, leader of the Sweden Democrats, has called for even stricter measures, including requiring new citizens to pledge loyalty to Sweden. However, this was not part of the committee’s recommendations. Inquiry leader Kirsti Laakso Utvik noted that these reforms would bring Sweden’s policies more in line with other European nations.
