Coalition parties to meet at Harpsund for climate policy discussions in Sweden
On Thursday, coalition parties are set to convene at Harpsund to discuss a second update of their agreement. Recently, a significant aspect was reaching an accord on climate policy, which saw the participation of the Sweden Democrats (SD) in advocating for net-zero emissions by 2045. Other amendments included an instruction for the National Institute of Economic Research to evaluate the net effects of migration and a review of healthcare guarantees.
The governing parties aim to maintain a similar level of ambition as they focus on fulfilling existing agreements. For SD, these updates represent a strategic opportunity to deepen collaboration in the long term. By introducing additional areas of focus and initiating studies that can be concluded in the next electoral period, they are laying the groundwork for a potential four-party government in the event of a right-wing victory in 2026.
Despite the unexpected success of their cooperative efforts, the governing parties prefer to keep options limited. There are varying reasons for this reluctance, with some expressing concerns over the lack of a shared value system essential for a coalition government. Moreover, SD’s position as the most EU-skeptical group in parliament raises questions about its governing capability, particularly whether it has sufficient qualified representatives for the roles necessary in government.
SD seems aware of this concern. Consequently, it may not insist on ministerial posts proportional to its size but rather ensure competence in the roles it seeks. Notably, there is speculation that SD might pursue the Ministry of Justice, especially if their coalition partner tries to secure control over finance, foreign affairs, and defense. SD has explicitly stated its seriousness regarding government participation, asserting that the outcome of the next election will dictate its role. There is a consensus that allowing SD into government positions could alienate liberal urban voters.