Christian Democrat leader Ebba Busch delivered the opening address at her party's national conference in Linköping. She immediately set a defiant tone by recalling the party's role in collapsing Sweden's December Agreement in 2015. Busch positioned her party as the essential component for any functioning right-wing government in Sweden.
"I want Sweden to rise up," Busch declared in her speech. "That is my very simple but important vision for our country."
The party leader then turned to Sweden's value foundation. She argued that political forces have systematically undermined the nation's core values for decades. Busch emphasized that Christian Democrats offer the moral compass Sweden desperately needs.
Gender identity emerged as a central theme in Busch's address. She described the public perception of men as "problematic" and vowed to push back against gender identity legislation. "We are not those who crouch in the benches, now we recharge," Busch told conference delegates. "The normlessness of the gender identity law is wrong. And we will do what we can to roll back gender identity policies."
Busch acknowledged natural differences between women and men while rejecting biological determinism. "But the hostility is not biological. It is only ideological. And these are theories we can do without. Sister should not be set against brother," she continued.
Approximately 600 motions await debate during the three-day conference. Two key policy proposals from the party board focus on community cohesion and healthcare reform. These will form the foundation of the Christian Democrats' election platform.
One pre-conference proposal generating substantial attention seeks to ban burkas and niqabs in public spaces. Delegates will debate this controversial measure during Friday afternoon sessions.
The conference brings together Christian Democrat members from across Sweden. They aim to unite behind policies that will define their campaign for the next general election. This gathering occurs at a crucial political moment as Sweden's governing coalition faces multiple challenges.
Political observers note Busch's speech signals a harder line on cultural issues than previous Christian Democrat positions. The party appears to be staking out distinct territory within Sweden's political right. This strategic positioning could prove significant in upcoming coalition negotiations.
Sweden's Christian Democrats have historically balanced social conservatism with pragmatic governance. Busch's speech suggests the party may be emphasizing its traditional values more prominently. This shift reflects broader European trends where center-right parties increasingly focus on cultural identity questions.
The ban on religious face coverings represents one of Europe's most debated integration policies. Several European nations have implemented similar restrictions. Sweden's approach to this issue will draw international attention given the country's reputation for progressive social policies.