A new SVT/Verian survey reveals that 47 percent of Swedes favor a ban on full-face veils like burka and niqab in public places, while 36 percent oppose it. Support varies sharply by political bloc, with 77 percent among Tidö parties' voters. The poll was conducted in November among about 1,000 people.
An SVT/Verian survey indicates that nearly half of the Swedish public supports a ban on burka and niqab in public spaces. Among respondents, 47 percent favor such a ban, 36 percent oppose it, and 17 percent are unsure. Differences by political affiliation are stark: 77 percent of voters for the Tidö parties—the current government coalition—support a ban, compared to just 22 percent among opposition voters.
The issue has been debated in politics, especially among right-wing parties. Ahead of the Christian Democrats' party congress last fall, leader Ebba Busch (KD) proposed a ban. "Islam must adapt in Sweden," she told Aftonbladet. Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson (M) and Social Democrats' leader Magdalena Andersson have kept the question open, while Green Party's Daniel Helldén has criticized the proposal.
Voter Nedo Dervisevic backs the idea: "It's important to know who you're talking to. To see the eyes and the face." In contrast, Anita Eriksson is skeptical, emphasizing religious freedom: "Which of the parliamentary parties should stand up for religions, if not the Christian Democrats?"
The survey was based on about 1,000 web interviews with randomly selected individuals aged 18–84, recruited via the Sifo panel. It was conducted from November 17 to 23.
