SVT survey finds deep divide over climate journalism

Public opinion in Sweden is sharply divided over how the news media cover climate change, according to a commentary published by SVT. The views on climate journalism are almost as polarised as opinions on the climate issue itself, writes Christofer Brask, SVT’s news editor and deputy responsible publisher.

More than one-third of respondents believe Swedish news media report too little on climate change, while a similar proportion consider the amount of coverage appropriate. One-quarter say there is too much coverage.

Opinions also differ over the content of the reporting. Among voters described as Tidö voters, 57 per cent believe the media exaggerate the consequences of climate change, and 50 per cent say coverage is too extensive. Red-green voters express the opposite view.

The commentary says SVT’s climate reporting has recently generated a steady stream of responses. Some people have criticised the broadcaster for not stating in every case that an individual fire was directly caused by climate change. Others have argued that SVT exaggerates the climate threat and leaves out information that could complicate the picture.

“All constructive reactions are, of course, welcome and a sign that our journalism engages and affects people,” Brask writes. He adds that many people who contact SVT are highly knowledgeable and make important points.

However, the survey does not change SVT News’ basic mission, according to the commentary. The organisation says it will continue to provide factual news journalism with multiple perspectives, without seeking to confirm a particular worldview among a particular audience.

Survey results

Indikator Opinion conducted the survey for SVT using its randomly recruited Swedish panel between 23 and 29 July 2026. The response rate was 40 per cent, and 1,863 responses were collected. The results were weighted by gender, age and party choice in 2022.

Asked whether Swedish news media exaggerate or underestimate the consequences of climate change, 14 per cent said they exaggerate them considerably, while 15 per cent said they exaggerate them somewhat. Forty per cent said the media provide a largely accurate picture. Fifteen per cent said the consequences are somewhat underestimated, and 7 per cent said they are considerably underestimated. Nine per cent were unsure.

Asked whether the media report too much or too little on climate change, 13 per cent said far too much, 12 per cent somewhat too much, 35 per cent about the right amount, 19 per cent somewhat too little and 16 per cent far too little. Six per cent were unsure.