Senior political correspondent covering Swedish government and EU affairs from Stockholm
Sweden's dental care reform has caused a dramatic drop in young adult dental visits after the free care age lowered from 23 to 19. Regional data shows 40-60% decreases in patients aged 20-23, creating potential long-term public health concerns. Health officials call the trend expected but emphasize the importance of regular checkups.
The Uddevalla Bridge on Sweden's E6 highway has been closed due to falling ice hazards, causing major traffic disruptions. Swedish authorities have implemented detours while addressing safety concerns. This closure impacts regional transportation and cross-border commerce with Norway.
Kiruna Municipality implements 35-hour work week for care staff through administrative maneuver despite legal challenge. The policy affects 300 positions and aims to improve retention without additional hiring. Union officials support the trial period as municipalities seek solutions to care sector workforce challenges.
Sweden's government proposes lowering criminal responsibility age to 13 for serious crimes, sparking debate between justice advocates and child development experts. The controversial plan faces scientific scrutiny and political opposition while aiming to address rising youth crime.
Justice Minister Gunnar Strömmer visits Norrköping following multiple explosions that occurred over the weekend. The minister's trip includes meetings with local officials and opposition representatives to assess security needs. This high-level response underscores the seriousness with which Swedish authorities approach organized crime incidents.
Swedish authorities investigate a bus accident on the E45 highway amid winter conditions. Both transport officials and police conduct separate reviews of maintenance protocols and potential negligence. The incident highlights ongoing challenges of winter road safety in Nordic regions.
Sweden's governing Social Democrats face opposition accusations of operating misleading social media accounts through subsidiary organizations. The Moderate Party describes these practices as a troll factory that circumvents transparency rules. The controversy highlights ongoing debates about political communication standards in digital campaigning.
Klara Holmin becomes the Green Party's new Gothenburg leader, emphasizing social sustainability and reduced car traffic. Her selection signals evolving urban environmental policies that could influence national approaches. The leadership change comes amid ongoing debates about transportation and equity in Swedish cities.
Stockholm's housing market continues to defy national trends with properties selling well above asking prices. The Swedish capital maintains its position as the country's strongest property market despite cooling conditions elsewhere. Government policymakers face ongoing challenges balancing market stability with housing accessibility.
Gothenburg municipal workers quickly corrected a leaning Christmas tree at Gustaf Adolfs Square after discovering installation issues. The incident caused temporary suspension of decoration activities but was resolved within hours. This demonstrates Swedish municipalities' commitment to public safety protocols during seasonal installations.
A man faces trial for multiple attacks on Sundsvall's municipal building, including a Molotov cocktail incident. The case highlights security challenges for Swedish government facilities and the legal system's response to threats against public institutions.
Malmö municipality confronts recruitment policy challenges after a controversial hiring decision. Eighty-five school staff members signed a letter defending their principal amid political pressure. City officials now face demands to revise social media screening guidelines for public employees.
New research indicates food delivery mopeds emit toxic gases posing health risks in Swedish cities. Air quality experts warn cyclists to avoid direct exposure to delivery vehicle emissions. The findings present challenges for urban environmental policy and public health protection.
Uddevalla municipality dismisses multiple managers after a home care scandal reveals systemic failures. The case exposes broader challenges in Sweden's decentralized welfare system and raises questions about care quality oversight. Swedish authorities face pressure to implement reforms preventing similar situations nationwide.
Two managers dismissed in Uddevalla home care scandal after investigation revealed years of unaddressed deficiencies. The case highlights systemic challenges in Sweden's municipal care system and raises questions about national oversight mechanisms. Eleven employees remain suspended while five return to duty.
Sweden has revealed its massive military logistics hub in Arboga, showcasing 45,000 square meters of secure storage capacity. The facility expansion reflects increased defence priorities and careful security protocols. This rare access demonstrates Sweden's balancing act between transparency and national security requirements.
Two managers dismissed in Swedish home care scandal after investigation revealed serious client safety breaches and management failures. Approximately twenty staff suspended with multiple dismissals already implemented. The case raises broader questions about Sweden's elder care quality controls.
Sweden launches emergency investigation after ambulance medic killing reveals critical gaps in inter-agency warning systems. The government review will examine how police and emergency services share risk information about dangerous patients.
The Swedish government proposes stricter background checks for school staff after investigations revealed a convicted predator worked in multiple preschools. New legislation would expand criminal record checks and create better reporting systems between municipalities. The reforms address critical safety gaps in Sweden's educational system.
Gothenburg continues its century-old tradition with a 20-meter Christmas tree installation at Gustaf Adolfs torg. The municipal government manages a systematic selection process for the annual tree. The lighting ceremony will illuminate the city center through mid-January.