Swedish Parliament Approves Constitutional Changes
Sweden's parliament approved constitutional changes to strengthen democracy protections. The reforms make future constitutional amendments more difficult and come amid security concerns. A second vote after the next election will require a two-thirds majority for final approval.
Sweden's parliament has approved changes to its constitution. The amendments will strengthen democracy protections and fix the number of Supreme Court justices in constitutional law.
Political parties say the reforms will make Sweden's democracy more resilient. The decision comes as Sweden faces its most serious security situation since World War II.
This marks the first of two required votes for constitutional amendments. Sweden requires an election between the two votes.
The changes will make future constitutional amendments more difficult. Currently, no qualified majority is needed for the second vote.
After the election, parliament will need a two-thirds majority for final approval. The first vote now requires support from at least half of parliament members.
Government officials say other countries show democracies can be undermined quickly. The reforms aim to protect Sweden's legal system from political interference.
Sweden's four constitutional laws are among the world's most difficult to change. This deliberate process reflects the importance Swedes place on their fundamental laws.
Constitutional changes require broad political consensus in Sweden. The current government argues these reforms address real vulnerabilities in democratic systems worldwide.