02 Nov 2023 | 10:48 PM UTC
Sweden: Government extends stricter controls at border crossings through at least May 11, 2024
Sweden extends increased border security through at least May 11, 2024. Travel disruptions possible.
The Swedish government has extended its existing heightened border security checks through at least May 11, 2024. Swedish authorities previously raised the national terror threat rating from three (elevated) to four (high) on a five-point scale on Aug. 17, 2023. Both decisions were in response to perceived security risks following several demonstrations that have taken place across the country during which activists burned copies of the Quran. The policy grants border police the power to conduct additional random checks, among other actions. Authorities could extend the enhanced security procedures beyond the currently slated expiration date depending on operational needs.
Security-related delays are possible for international arrivals at airports, maritime ports, and land border crossings nationwide.
Allow additional time to clear Swedish border security. Carry proper identification documents at all times while in Sweden; strictly heed the instructions of local security officials.
During the summer of 2023, activists in Sweden and Denmark staged multiple demonstrations during which copies of the Quran were burned, drawing international backlash, primarily from Muslim-majority nations. Swedish diplomatic missions in several countries, including Turkiye, Iran, and Malaysia, have been targeted in street protests over the issue; in Iraq, protesters stormed the country's embassy in Baghdad on July 20, setting part of the building on fire. Two days later, Iraqi protesters attempted to breach Baghdad's Green Zone in an effort to access the Danish Embassy but were unsuccessful.
