In a significant move to strengthen the importance of citizenship, the Swedish government has announced plans to appoint an inquiry to investigate and propose revoking citizenship in certain cases. The decision comes on the heels of a proposal presented in January 2025, which aimed to limit the constitutionally protected right to citizenship.
The purpose of this assignment is to emphasize the significance of citizenship as a bearer of rights and obligations. According to the government's background information, the inquiry will submit proposals to revoke Swedish citizenship from individuals who have been granted it on erroneous grounds or have been convicted of serious offences that threaten national security or fall under the jurisdiction of the International Criminal Court.
The scope of the inquiry is extensive, with a focus on revoking citizenship in cases where crime can be described as a systemic threat. This includes crimes committed within the framework of criminal networks that seriously harm the state's vital interests. The government aims to ensure that those who abuse or commit serious crimes are held accountable for their actions.
The announcement comes as a departure from Sweden's previous stance on revoking citizenship, which has historically been reserved for individuals convicted of treason or other high-level crimes. Minister for Migration Johan Forssell stated, "Introducing this possibility is about emphasising the importance of citizenship and our zero tolerance for abuse and serious crime."
The inquiry will submit its report by 20 March 2026, providing a comprehensive review of the proposed measures and their potential impact on Swedish society.
This development marks an important shift in Sweden's approach to citizenship, highlighting the need for accountability and consequences for those who exploit or undermine national security. As the government moves forward with this initiative, it remains to be seen how it will shape the country's approach to citizenship and national security.
Key aspects of the proposed inquiry:
Revocation of citizenship in cases where individuals have been granted it on erroneous grounds
Revocation of citizenship from those convicted of serious offences that threaten national security or fall under the jurisdiction of the International Criminal Court
Investigation into the possibility of revoking citizenship for individuals convicted of crimes that seriously harm the vital interests of the state
The Swedish government's decision to appoint an inquiry to investigate and propose revoking citizenship in certain cases marks a significant step forward in ensuring accountability and consequences for those who abuse or exploit national security.