Government's proposition for a begging prohibition is deemed superfluous by the Swedish investigation
The debate surrounding the potential introduction of a national begging ban in Sweden has been a topic of active discussion recently, but the current consensus among investigators and authorities appears to be against such a measure.
Government investigator Krister Thelin presented a report concluding that a national begging ban is not necessary in Sweden. The investigation found that the overall proportion of people begging has decreased by at least 75% in recent years, partly due to municipal-level bans and law enforcement measures already in place.
Some municipalities, such as Vellinge in Skåne, have applied the public order law to ban "passive fundraising" since 2018. These area-specific bans have been considered effective for dealing with begging locally, contributing to the view that a national ban is unnecessary.
However, despite the investigator's recommendation, political parties, notably the Tidö parties, could still push for a national ban proposal. If advanced, the ban might be introduced as soon as July 1, 2026.
Critics argue that banning begging might clash with Sweden’s reputation as a welfare state and simply displaces vulnerable populations rather than solving their plight. Those pushed away from begging reportedly often turn to collecting cans or working in the black labor market, indicating underlying social issues remain.
The debate touches on balancing public order and security with social welfare responsibilities. Authorities emphasize that vulnerable people remain in society and that enforcement should not just move them elsewhere. The focus remains on addressing root causes rather than penalizing begging outright.
The Sweden Democrats, a part of the coalition parties that agreed to launch the inquiry into introducing a national begging ban, are among those pushing for the measure. The ruling Moderates and the Sweden Democrats intend to introduce a national begging ban.
Justice Minister Gunnar Strömmer will look into the issue in more detail at a later date. The government will send the inquiry out for consultation before making a final decision. If the parties decide to move forward with a ban, Strömmer suggests it could be introduced "purely technically" before the 2026 election.
The reduction in the number of beggars on Swedish streets is partly due to the decrease in cash usage. Fewer beggars are earning as much money as they used to, with figures previously reaching 150 kronor per day.
Lina Nordquist, the Liberals' parliamentary group leader, agrees that the inquiry's recommendations are in line with Liberal policy. She emphasizes that the goal is to fight poverty, exclusion, and mental illness, not to ban people from asking for help.
In summary, the current consensus among investigators and many authorities is against a national begging ban, favoring localized controls and social support, though political will could still drive legislative changes with significant social and civil rights implications.
Policies regarding a national begging ban have sparked intense debate, with investigators and authorities generally opposing it due to its potential conflict with Sweden's social welfare responsibilities. However, political parties like the Tidö parties may still advocate for the ban, which could be introduced as part of legislation in July 2026. The debate encompasses aspects of policy-and-legislation, politics, and crime-and-justice, stretching into general-news discourse.
