Sat Jan 10 13:08:23 UTC 2026: ### Sweden’s Shifting Identity: A Bosnian Refugee’s Perspective
The Story: A Bosnian Swede, reflecting on their experiences as a refugee in 1993, expresses deep concern over Sweden’s evolving social and political landscape. The professor at Stockholm University laments what they perceive as a decline in empathy and tolerance, contrasting the present-day climate with the welcoming environment they encountered upon arriving in Sweden during the Bosnian War. The article highlights the rise of right-wing political discourse, cuts in development aid, and instances of Islamophobia and anti-Semitism as indicators of this shift.
Key Points:
- The author arrived in Sweden as a Bosnian refugee in 1993.
- The author feels racism, anti-Semitism, and Islamophobia have reached new levels in Sweden.
- The Sweden Democrats are dominating the political discourse.
- The government has cut 10 billion kronor ($1.09bn) in development aid.
- The author recalls a time when Sweden showed great empathy, exemplified by a priest delivering aid to Sarajevo.
- The author is worried about toxic political rhetoric influencing upcoming elections.
Key Takeaways:
- Sweden’s perceived shift away from its historically empathetic stance towards refugees and minorities is causing concern among some immigrant communities.
- The rise of right-wing political influence appears to be contributing to a more divisive social climate.
- Economic factors, such as cuts in development aid, are potentially exacerbating social tensions.
- The author’s personal experiences underscore the importance of empathy and integration in fostering a harmonious society.
- There is a sense of nostalgia for a perceived “golden age” of Swedish tolerance and acceptance.
First Piper 