The Swedish government has announced the introduction of a new law to expand police authority during border controls, prompted by the increase in national threats following recent Koran burnings. The law, scheduled for approval on Thursday, will permit body searches and enhanced electronic surveillance.
The focus on border controls stems from the belief that they are “a measure that gives the conditions to identify people coming into Sweden who could represent a threat to security,” as highlighted by Justice Minister Gunnar Strömmer.
Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson referred to the situation as “dangerous” and “complicated”. The proposed law, he explained, is designed to deter “people with very weak connections to Sweden” from entering the country with intentions of “committing crimes or acting in conflict with Swedish security interests.”
The situation in Denmark is strikingly similar, with both governments allowing Koran burnings which intensified in the past few weeks, causing strong reactions from a lot of Muslim countries. Both Denmark and Sweden have acknowledged the perilous situation and the need for de-escalation.
Both countries are pursuing legal limitations on Koran burnings. Danish Foreign Minister Lars Lokke Rasmussen expressed hope on Monday that their willingness to address the issue would help “de-escalate the problems.” Rasmussen clarified that the decision was not a concession to pressure but a conclusion based on their “political analysis that it is in the best interest of all of us.” He urged against complacency, stating, “We shouldn’t just sit and wait for this to explode.”
In Sweden, similar measures are under consideration. Kristersson revealed that the government is examining changes to allow law enforcement to prevent Koran burning if they pose a national security threat. The Swedish Prime Minister also urged people to use the right to freedom of speech responsibly and respectfully.
However, both countries asserted their commitment to preserving freedom of speech laws and defending democracy and religious freedom. Right-wing parties in both nations have criticised the proposed measures.
Kristersson stated that new measures are necessary as “we also have a shared assessment that it is a dangerous situation for our country and both of our countries when we are dragged into conflicts.”
Both countries have been communicating with the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), which stated that “Attempts to spread Islamophobia are increasing in many parts of the world,” and that “the incidents of burning copies of (the Koran) aggravate intolerance and discrimination.”
In conclusion, the escalating tensions resulting from Koran burnings in both Sweden and Denmark have led to increased security measures and proposed legal changes aimed at de-escalation. The two countries are searching for a balance between maintaining national security and preserving freedom of speech and religious freedom.
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