The rise of the far-right in Sweden and the tenth anniversary of an iconic protest
Tess Asplund, who stood alone against neo-Nazis in Sweden in 2016, reflected on the normalization of the far-right and changes in the political arena over the past decade.
Tess Asplund, who became a global symbol of resistance in Sweden in 2016 by raising her fist against neo-Nazis, has expressed concern over the political acceptance of the far-right ahead of the upcoming general election.
Ten Years After the Historic Protest
The photograph of Tess Asplund, a Black woman who stood alone in resistance against members of the Nordic Resistance Movement in Borlänge, Sweden, on May 1, 2016, resonated widely in the global press. Immortalized by photographer David Lagerlöf, the moment came to be recognized as a global symbol of resistance against the far-right.
The Rise of the Far-Right in Politics
Ahead of Sweden's upcoming general election on September 13, polls expect the far-right-rooted Sweden Democrats to become the second most-voted party in the country. The party's gain of political power despite its neo-Nazi roots points to a serious process of normalization in the country.
Tess Asplund's Assessments and Concerns
Evaluating the current situation in an interview in Stockholm, Tess Asplund stated that people clearly distanced themselves from the far-right a decade ago, but today this situation has been normalized. Asplund emphasized that this change brings her a sense of sadness and shame.
Immigration Policies and Political Debates
With the political influence of the Sweden Democrats party, immigrants and asylum seekers have been targeted in Sweden; very strict immigration policies and rhetoric targeting millions of people have gained prevalence. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson stated that if the coalition wins, the far-right could enter the government.
Emphasis on Struggle and Resistance
It is noted that structures such as the Nordic Resistance Movement—designated as a terrorist group by the US in 2024—and the Sweden Democrats, which are attempting to polish their image, keep the migration issue on the agenda. Despite the negative developments, Asplund emphasized that the fight for human rights and against racism continues in Sweden.