Swedish MPs back tougher rules for changing the constitution

Sweden’s Constitution Committee has backed a proposal requiring support from two-thirds of all MPs at the final vote on future constitutional amendments, raising the barrier for a parliamentary majority seeking to change the country’s fundamental laws.

The committee’s recommendation on Thursday is not the final parliamentary decision. Debate and a vote are planned for 4 November, with the changes proposed to take effect on 1 April 2027.

Under the package, the first vote on a future amendment would need support from at least half of all MPs. The second vote, after a general election, would require at least two-thirds. The same thresholds would apply to changes to the main provisions of the Riksdag Act.

The package also strengthens court independence. A majority of the board overseeing court administration would have to be judges, and government agencies could no longer supervise courts’ adjudication.

The Sweden Democrats want the whole package rejected. They argue that the existing system already provides strong protection and that the new thresholds could obstruct necessary constitutional changes. At this stage, parliament can accept or reject the package only as a whole.

Parliament approved the first constitutional decision on 1 October 2025. The election held since then allows it to take the required second decision.

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