Global Geopolitical Series: Sweden in political deadlock as elections fails to deliver decisive majority

Yet another election has taken place in Sweden and yet again it showed that the European Union countries remain deeply divided over the future course of their countries. Sweden’s general election that took place last Sunday showed the extent of division in the country amid a slower economic growth and more importantly migrant crisis on its shore.

The ruling Social Democratic Party won 101 seats in 349 members’ parliament, 12 seats less than the last election, making it the biggest party in numbers of seats won. Moderate Party came second 70 seats, 13 seats less than the last election. Sweden Democrats were the biggest winner of the night with 62 seats, 20 more than the last election. Sweden’s Centre Party won 31 seats, 9 seats more than last year. Sweden’s left won 28 seats, 7 more than the last election. Christian Democratic Party won 23 seats, which 7 more compared to the last showing. Liberals won 19 seats, same as last time, and the Green Party came last with 15 seats, 10 seats less than the last showing.

The current coalition looks like - the ruling party’s coalition has 144 seats. Moderate Party’s alliance coalition has 143 seats, which makes the Sweden Democrats the kingmaker with 62 seats.

After the election, the Sweden Democrats’ leader Jimmie Akesson, who wants Sweden to move out of the European Union, called on Moderate Party leader Ulf Kristersson to form a coalition with his party to form a government. However, according to the latest reports, Mr. Ulf has rejected the offer.