Prime minister rejects Christian Democrat child benefit pledge

Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson has rejected a proposal from Christian Democrat leader Ebba Busch to raise monthly child benefits from 1,250 to 2,000 kronor, SVT reports.

Kristersson’s Moderate Party instead prioritises tax cuts for working parents, arguing that increasing universal child benefits could risk deepening social exclusion in some areas.

“We prefer to make it more worthwhile for people with the dual responsibility of work and family to stay in employment,” Kristersson said.

Busch has stated that welfare must take priority over broad tax cuts during the next four-year term, but Kristersson countered: “Many start by asking what the state needs. We always start by asking what individuals need.”

The Liberal Party also backs tax reductions, proposing to halve the state income tax for earners above roughly 53,000 kronor per month. Party leader Simona Mohamsson has additionally pledged to double the number of billionaires in Sweden within a decade.

Mohamsson acknowledged the policy divide with Busch, saying: “I don’t entirely agree, but it’s good that voters have different options on our side.”