Sweden Combats Financial Terrorism with New Strategy
In response to the deteriorating security situation following the burning of Quran copies, the Swedish government has launched a new strategy to combat financial terrorism. The Ministry of Justice, led by Minister Gunnar Strömmer, is working closely with the Security Police (Säpo) chief Charlotte von Essen to strengthen Sweden’s ability to prevent, avert, and impede terrorism and violent extremism.
New Comprehensive National Strategy
The government has prepared a new comprehensive national strategy against violent extremism and terrorism. This strategy focuses on preventing radicalization and spreading of violent extremism. The Swedish National Council for Crime Prevention will enhance collaboration between government agencies and other relevant actors to achieve this goal.
Key Components
- Preventing radicalization
- Spreading of violent extremism
- Enhancing collaboration between government agencies and relevant actors
Raising Terrorist Threat Level
The government has raised the terrorist threat level from level 3 to level 4, indicating a high threat of attacks by terrorists and violent extremists. To address this issue, the government is working intensively to take necessary measures, including reviewing the Public Order Act to strengthen Sweden’s security.
Measures to Combat Terrorism
- Reviewing the Public Order Act
- Strengthening Sweden’s security
- Enhancing regulations under the Aliens Act in cases involving security considerations
- Introducing legislation to prevent terrorist material from being spread online
Proposed Punishment for Participating in or Financing Terrorism
The government has proposed that participation in or financing participation in a terrorist organization should be a punishable offense. This would provide a new powerful tool to combat terrorism.
Constitutional Amendment
A constitutional amendment will enter into force on January 1, allowing limitations on freedom of association for groups engaged in terrorism. This will enable Sweden to combat terrorism in new and broader ways.
Prolonging Internal Border Controls
The government has decided to prolong internal border controls at Sweden’s internal borders until May 2023 due to the serious threat to public order and internal security. The decision is based on the assessment that there is a high threat of attacks by terrorists and violent extremists.
Commitment to Combating Financial Terrorism
Sweden is committed to combating financial terrorism and ensuring the safety and security of its citizens. The government will continue to work closely with relevant agencies and international partners to achieve this goal.