Expert Questions Realism in Swedish Liberals' Political Path
A political expert questions whether the Swedish Liberals' strategy to exclude the Sweden Democrats from government is realistic. The party faces a dilemma between its principles and political mathematics. With the Sweden Democrats commanding over 20% support, their exclusion may make coalition-building impossible.
The Swedish Liberals face a difficult political dilemma according to political scientist Andreas Johansson Heinö. He says the party wants to remain part of a government coalition but sets conditions that make this unlikely after 2026.
The Liberal party leadership unanimously adopted a proposal from party leader Simona Mohamsson. They want a center-right government led by the Moderate Party but want to keep the Sweden Democrats out.
Johansson Heinö stated in a message to news media that the Liberals have good arguments for their position. But current power dynamics make their approach unrealistic for the next election period.
The Sweden Democrats' leader Jimmie Åkesson has issued his own ultimatum. His party will either join the government after the next election or go into opposition.
This creates a nearly impossible situation for the Liberals. They represent only about 4% of voters while the Sweden Democrats command over 20% support.
The political reality suggests center-right parties cannot form a government without Sweden Democrat support. The Liberals' conditions effectively block the only mathematically viable coalition.
Sweden's next general election will occur in 2026. The current center-right government depends on support from the Sweden Democrats despite keeping them out of formal cabinet positions.