Extremism in Sweden

Summary

On November 13, 2019, the Program on Extremism at The George Washington University, in conjunction with Malmö University, the Swedish Civil Contingencies Agency, and The Elliott School of International Affairs hosted a panel discussion centered on how Sweden has emerged as an unlikely hub for extremism in recent years. The Scandinavian country, known for its tolerance and generous immigration and welfare policies, has in fact witnessed a rise in radicalization linked to the Islamic State and other jihadist groups and a growth of right-wing extremism. Authorities also express concerns regarding non-violent extremist groups, such as the Muslim Brotherhood and the country's large Salafist milieu.

The discussion was moderated by Program on Extremism Director Lorenzo Vidino, featuring three top Swedish experts:

• Magnus Ranstorp, Swedish Defence University
• Aje Carlbom, Malmö University
• Eli Göndör, Gothenburg University

Part One

Part Two

Part Three