Over the weekend, more than 30,000 Jehovah's Witnesses from around the world gather at 3Arena in Stockholm for the convention Eternal Happiness. The event faces protests from former members criticizing the organization's leadership.
More than 30,000 Jehovah's Witnesses, including 7,000 from about 40 countries, take part in the Eternal Happiness convention at 3Arena. The program features Bible lectures, group singing and dramatizations. Religious historian Peter Åkerbäck describes the atmosphere as powerful when participants sing.
Demonstrators led by Jonas Skogstroll stand outside the arena. They accuse the leadership, the Watchtower, of violating human rights through shunning of members who leave.
Spokesperson Raymond Beaini says the convention is entirely voluntary. He emphasizes that the group respects differing opinions and freedom of expression.
