Sweden Democrats clash over who counts as Swedish

Two senior Sweden Democrats have clashed publicly over who counts as Swedish, with Mattias Karlsson defending national belonging through culture and Richard Jomshof insisting that ethnic Swedes should remain a majority.

Karlsson describes Swedishness through language, culture and loyalty, while Jomshof argues that ancestry matters. In their latest exchange, Karlsson called his colleague’s position immoral and abhorrent, while Jomshof complained of accusations of racism and smears, SvD reported on 27 October.

The dispute has already reached the party leadership. TV4 reported on 21 October that senior figures were discussing Jomshof’s future, with his executive-committee seat at stake and pressure on leader Jimmie Åkesson to intervene.

Jomshof has described biological family bonds as one of several foundations of Swedish society. Karlsson responded by citing SD’s programme, which defines the nation through culture, language, identity and loyalty rather than genetic ancestry, SVT reported. Karlsson also said a Swedish passport does not automatically make someone part of the Swedish nation.

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