Swedish Parliament Advances Constitutional Amendments on Abortion and Citizenship

On May 20, 2026, the Swedish Parliament approved proposed amendments to the Constitution, aiming to enshrine the right to abortion, limit certain aspects of freedom of association, and introduce provisions for revoking citizenship under specific circumstances.

Key Amendments Proposed

• Right to Abortion: The amendment seeks to constitutionally protect the right to terminate a pregnancy, aligning with existing laws that permit abortion up to 18 weeks without external consultation.
• Freedom of Association: The proposal includes provisions to limit freedom of association concerning organizations involved in serious criminal activities for financial gain.
• Revocation of Citizenship: The amendment would allow for the revocation of Swedish citizenship from dual nationals convicted of crimes severely harming Sweden's vital interests or those who obtained citizenship through fraudulent means.

Legislative Process and Implications

For these constitutional amendments to take effect, a second parliamentary vote is required after the national elections scheduled for September 13, 2026. If passed, the amendments are set to be implemented on January 1, 2027.

These proposed changes reflect Sweden's ongoing efforts to adapt its legal framework to contemporary societal challenges, balancing individual rights with national security and public order considerations.