In a bold move to tackle one of Sweden’s most pressing social crises, Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson has announced a groundbreaking initiative aimed at eradicating violence against women. Speaking at a press conference in Stockholm on Wednesday, the Prime Minister revealed he will personally chair the newly formed ‘Kvinnofrid’ Ministerial Council, translating to ‘Women’s Peace’ in Swedish.
This council is designed to enhance coordination among government agencies, forging a united front against deeply rooted issues like severe mental health-related violence, domestic abuse, and so-called honor-based violence where women are targeted by their own family members. Kristersson emphasized the urgency, noting that the cabinet has already approved stricter parole conditions and improved assessments for repeat offenders.
The announcement comes amid heightened public outrage following two tragic incidents in late December 2025. In Rönninge, south of Stockholm, a 25-year-old woman went missing on December 26, prompting a massive police search. Her body was discovered the next day, turning the case into a homicide investigation. Meanwhile, in the northern city of Boden, a woman was found dead on December 25 after a distress call, succumbing to extreme violence.
These events have reignited fierce debates on how authorities evaluate risks and manage repeat violent offenders. Justice Minister Gunnar Strömmer captured the national sentiment, declaring, ‘Being a woman in Sweden should not be deadly. Dangerous men must be locked away so women can feel safe in public.’
The term ‘Kvinnofrid’ draws from Sweden’s 13th-century peace laws, historically aimed at preventing assaults and kidnappings against women. By invoking this legacy, the government signals a long-term commitment to cultural and systemic change. Experts hope this high-level intervention will lead to tangible reductions in violence rates, setting a model for other nations grappling with similar challenges.
