On Friday, the UN Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination (CERD) published a comprehensive report on Sweden’s efforts to combat racism, in which it issued several criticisms. In particular, it condemned the measure that allows police to conduct body and vehicle searches in certain zones without specific suspicion, stating that this constitutes “racial discrimination.” The zones, made possible by a law passed in 2024, were introduced in situations where police believe there is a real risk of group violence or armed conflict.
CERD described the practice as “repugnant and illegal,” arguing that it does not address Sweden’s underlying problems. Vice-chair Gay McDougall emphasised that people cannot be “stopped on the street just because of the way they look.”
The committee also criticised stricter rules for residence permits and citizenship, including language and civic knowledge tests as well as income requirements, and highlighted as problematic the obligation of public officials to report illegal migrants to the police.
The Swedish government, however, maintains that a careful analysis was conducted before the legislation was introduced, that it is compatible with fundamental freedoms and rights, and does not violate international conventions. Officials have also stated that they are focusing on increasing the number of deportations—voluntary and otherwise—and restoring confidence in the asylum system.
