Sweden Democrats oppose state apology to Sámi people

The Sweden Democrats oppose a public apology for the Swedish state’s abuses against Sámi people, arguing that the demand is tied to expanded rights the party does not want to introduce.

Martin Kinnunen set out the party’s position to SVT after the Sámi truth commission called for an apology. The Left and Green parties explicitly support that call.

The commission gathered testimony from 300 people about abuses including forced displacement, children being separated from parents and punishment for speaking Sámi. Its recommendations extend beyond an apology to greater weight for Sámi views on forestry and mining, and better teaching about Sámi history and rights.

SD’s objection therefore concerns the changes that could accompany recognition of those abuses. The commission’s recommendations are proposals; the party responses do not themselves settle what the state will do.

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