Story perspectives

Sweden's Homicides Drop to Decade Low Amid Tough Policies

3/31/2026

Summary

Story summary

In 2025, Sweden recorded 84 homicides and manslaughters, the decade's low, down from 92 in 2024.
The Swedish National Council for Crime Prevention (Brå) attributed the decline to new police methods reducing gang violence.
The right-wing government elected in 2022 focused on the issue by expanding surveillance, toughening sentences, and safety zones for police searches.
Gun violence remained the leading cause of violent death, accounting for 42 fatalities in 2025.

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Story summary

In 2025, Sweden recorded 84 homicides and manslaughters, the decade's low, down from 92 in 2024.
The Swedish National Council for Crime Prevention (Brå) attributed the decline to new police methods reducing gang violence.
The right-wing government elected in 2022 focused on the issue by expanding surveillance, toughening sentences, and safety zones for police searches.
Gun violence remained the leading cause of violent death, accounting for 42 fatalities in 2025.