With exactly two months remaining until Sweden heads to the polls on September 13th, The Local is gearing up to provide comprehensive election coverage designed specifically for foreign residents. The upcoming event involves three distinct votes: local, regional, and national, all of which carry significant implications for the international community living in the country. Regardless of an individual’s specific voting rights—whether they are a citizen eligible for national ballots or a resident participating in regional or local elections—the publication emphasizes that every reader deserves to be informed and represented in the broader public debate.
In a recent survey conducted by the news outlet, readers identified their primary interests regarding election news: a desire for clear explanations of Swedish politics, consistent updates on political developments, and exposure to a diverse range of perspectives. Responding to this feedback, the editorial team is committed to centering its reporting on the questions, concerns, and stories of foreign professionals. This approach aims to challenge the status quo where critical decisions are often made without the input or awareness of the foreign population, ultimately setting a new standard for reader-first journalism in the Swedish media landscape.
The organization also highlighted the vital role of its paying members in sustaining this dedicated coverage. Membership provides access to unlimited reading, the “Sweden in Focus” weekly editions, and exclusive newsletters such as “Politics in Sweden.” These resources build upon the momentum of the outlet’s previous reporting on citizenship reforms, which proved to be a major political story with lasting effects. As the election date approaches, the editorial team is inviting new members to join, noting that there’s never been a better time to be a member of The Local. Our reader-focused coverage of Sweden’s citizenship reforms has already led to the political news story of the year in this country – the impact of which will continue to be felt as the election draws nearer.
Some of our readers may be Swedish citizens with the right to vote in the national elections, others may be able to vote in the local and regional elections, and some of you not at all.
Because we're not just covering the Swedish election – we're covering it for you. We're doing that by answering your questions, addressing your concerns, sharing your stories, and giving you the reporting that matters to foreign professionals in Sweden. And we welcome your input.
