A stark warning has been issued by Sweden's official equality agency, stating that escalating hate, threats, and harassment are systematically driving women out of public life and forcing them into self-censorship. The agency described this trend as a "big threat to democracy" in a country long hailed as a global champion for equal rights.
A Personal and Political Reckoning
The safety of women in politics was thrust into the spotlight last October when Anna-Karin Hatt resigned as leader of the Centre party after just five months in office. She cited unbearable levels of hate and threats as her reason for stepping down. "To constantly feel like you need to look over your shoulder and [to] not feel completely safe, not even at home … I am affected by it much more deeply than I thought I would [be]," Hatt stated at the time.
Her predecessor, Annie Lööf, who herself was the target of a murder plot in 2022, said she respected Hatt's decision, adding: "I also understand the reality she describes … I know how it feels." This incident underscores a dangerous and increasingly hostile political climate that researchers say is becoming more polarised.
The Chilling Effect on Democracy and Debate
Line Säll, head of unit at the Swedish Gender Equality Agency, explained that the toxic environment is scaring away diverse groups and causing many women to "think twice" about political engagement. "For us who work with gender equality politics, it is also going in the wrong direction," she said, referencing the goal for women to have equal power and influence over society.
The consequences are tangible. Data from the 2025 politicians’ security survey reveals that 26.3% of female elected representatives reported being exposed to threats and harassment due to their position last year, compared to 23.6% of men. More strikingly, 32.7% of women reported feeling vulnerable, versus 24% of men.
This fear leads directly to censorship. Sandra Håkansson, a researcher at Uppsala University, noted that many politicians, especially women, avoid speaking on high-risk issues like immigration policy. "Violence is setting the boundaries of public debates," she said, warning that this narrowing of debate ultimately shapes and limits legislation.
A Multifaceted Threat Requiring Action
The problem is compounded for women from minority backgrounds. Former MP Amineh Kakabaveh, who has had police protection, highlighted the intersection of threats she faces, including racism and Islamist extremism. "Every single woman who is threatened represents a democratic deficit," she asserted.
Sweden's Minister for Gender Equality, Nina Larsson, acknowledged the crisis, stating, "When women are scared away from politics or silenced, both democracy and free debate are damaged." She called for a "clear culture change" online and urged social media companies to take greater responsibility. While the government has strengthened protections for officials, Larsson conceded that "more must be done", particularly to safeguard women who face disproportionate vulnerability.
The most common reaction among threatened politicians is to limit social media use and refrain from engaging on contentious topics—a silent retreat that experts warn undermines the very foundations of a healthy, representative democracy.
