Sweden's centre-left parties agree deal to keep minority government in office
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Sweden's mainstream parties reached a five-year deal yesterday that will allow the minority centre-left government to remain in office, and sideline the anti-immigration Sweden Democrats.
Sweden's normally stable politics were thrown into turmoil this month when Prime Minister Stefan Lofven said he would call a snap election in March after his budget was voted down by the centre-right opposition and the Sweden Democrats.
"Sweden has a tradition of solving difficult questions," Mr Lofven said. "I am happy we have reached a deal that means that Sweden can be governed."
The deal between the centre-left Social Democrats and Green coalition and the four-party centre-right Alliance will mean Mr Lofven will have to follow the opposition's budget next year, although he can make some changes in spring. The Alliance will abstain from voting against the government's budgets from spring onwards. The election has been cancelled.
Under the deal the two blocs have also agreed to coordinate policy on pensions, defence and energy.
Reuters
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments