Religious Associations in Sweden Lose Government Support Under New Law

The State Office of Registration of Associations and Organizations has announced that several religious associations in Sweden no longer qualify for government support under a new law. This decision affects organizations such as the Association of Jehovah’s Witnesses, which has been accused of homophobia, and various Muslim groups. The law has raised the threshold for membership and visitor numbers, requiring at least 2,500 regular members or visitors to qualify for state funding.

Among those impacted are 19 religious communities, with 14 losing support due to failing to meet the new membership criteria. The State Register Office of Associations and Organizations (OSO) now mandates registration for eligibility, a requirement some groups, like the Armenian Apostolic Church and the EFS, have not fulfilled despite receiving over 17 million kronor in the past five years.

Esak Riegel, head of the Commission, explained that the new law has increased administrative clarity and strictness. He stated that the Commission determined the Jehovah’s Witnesses did not meet democratic requirements because they exclude members based on the choice of a life partner. This exclusion, according to Riegel, could lead to adverse consequences for those who leave the community or their relatives who continue to communicate with them.

The government had previously attempted to deny support to the Jehovah’s Witnesses, but courts had overturned these decisions due to the vagueness of the old criteria. Despite this, the Jehovah’s Witnesses have received over 9 million kronor in the past five years and will not be required to return the funds, even though they no longer meet the new eligibility standards.

Some associations have faced previous controversies, yet the Authority found that some still uphold democratic principles. The Union of Muslims in Sweden (SMF), for instance, previously funded a mosque that was raided by security forces, resulting in the arrest of four individuals on terrorism-related charges. Riegel noted that while sects may cite religious texts, such as the Bible, this does not negate the need for adherence to democratic values.

The new law reflects a broader effort to ensure that state-supported organizations align with democratic principles. As the law is applied, the focus remains on transparency, accountability, and the protection of public interests. The decision underscores the importance of maintaining clear criteria for government support, ensuring that all recipients meet the necessary standards of democratic engagement and inclusivity.

Source: Read the original report (translated from Arabic)