Swedish party leaders to debate energy, healthcare, economy, and migration ahead of election

Sweden’s major party leaders will face off in a televised debate this Sunday, focusing on energy, healthcare, the economy, and migration, broadcaster SVT announced on Wednesday.

The two-hour debate, hosted by Agenda and moderated by Camilla Kvartoft and Anders Holmberg, comes four months before Sweden’s general election. “Much is at stake in politics, and we look forward to a dynamic debate where viewers can hear how the parties plan to address Sweden’s key challenges,” Kvartoft said.

Four main topics will dominate the discussion:

Energy

With warnings of a looming energy crisis that could drive up fuel and electricity prices, leaders will outline their plans to secure Sweden’s energy supply and boost production. Nuclear and wind power are expected to be contentious issues.

Healthcare

A perennial top concern for voters, the debate will examine how parties intend to improve access, equity, and quality in healthcare nationwide.

Economy

As Sweden navigates a prolonged downturn—exacerbated by the energy crisis—leaders will present strategies to strengthen household finances, stimulate growth, and reduce unemployment.

Migration

With asylum applications at record lows, parties will debate whether current trends are positive or negative for the country.

The debate airs live on SVT2 and SVT Play from 20:00 to 22:15 local time, with a brief pause for the Rapport news bulletin at 21:00. Leaders will stand in the same order as previous debates: S (Social Democrats), V (Left), C (Centre), MP (Greens), SD (Sweden Democrats), L (Liberals), KD (Christian Democrats), M (Moderates).

Following criticism of chaotic interruptions in the October 2025 debate, SVT has removed one-on-one duels and extended general discussion time. “We won’t cut microphones, but we expect leaders to respect speaking turns—or we’ll step in to manage the debate,” Kvartoft said.

Pre-debate coverage begins at 18:28 on SVT Play, featuring leader arrivals and a Q&A with political commentator Fouad Youcefi. A post-debate analysis with highlights and expert commentary by Mats Knutson will follow at 22:15.