Sweden has enacted a controversial law permitting the deportation of non-citizens deemed to have engaged in poor behaviour. The legislation, passed on Monday, allows authorities to revoke residency permits for actions they consider unacceptable.
Details of the New Legislation
Under the law, a wide range of behaviours could lead to deportation, including unpaid debts, failure to pay taxes, criminal activity, and associations with extremist organizations. The government has not provided a specific definition of unacceptable behaviour, leaving interpretation to authorities.
Migration Minister Johan Forssell stated when proposing the bill on March 24: "Anyone who doesn't make the effort to do the right thing shouldn't be able to count on staying." The law applies to future and pending residents, as well as many current residents.
Criticism from Human Rights Groups
The law has drawn sharp criticism from opposition politicians and advocacy groups. Civil Rights Defenders, a Stockholm-based organization, said in a statement: "The good behaviour law leaves people in uncertainty about what actions or expressions can be used against them. It undermines the rule of law and the principle of equality before the law."
Political Context
Sweden is governed by a three-party coalition led by Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson of the Moderate Party. Formed in October 2022, the government promised to reduce immigration and crack down on crime. The Moderates rely on a formal cooperation agreement with the Christian Democrats and the Liberals to secure a parliamentary majority. Sweden's parliamentary election is scheduled for September.
