Full Breakdown
Mullvad Co-Founder’s 5 Million-SEK Donation to Sweden’s Örebro Party Sparks Backlash and Corporate Response
6/30/2026, 12:49:09 AM
Co-Founder’s Personal Donation to Örebro Party
On 27 June 2026, Daniel Berntsson, co-founder of Mullvad VPN, contributed 5 million SEK (? $514 000) to the Örebro Party. The payment represented about 72 % of the party’s 2025 income, according to Flamman. Party leader Markus Allard, known for populist “remigration” and anti-corruption positions, said the funds will support the party’s parliamentary campaign.
Party Background and Election Context
The Örebro Party began as a local movement in Örebro before expanding nationally. It describes itself as outside the traditional left-right divide, emphasizing anti-corruption and stricter immigration policies. DonationWatch records show total donations rose from 202 000 SEK in 2024 to 5.58 million SEK in 2025, making Berntsson’s 2026 contribution a decisive boost.
Financial Overview
Berntsson’s 5 million SEK donation accounted for 72 % of the Örebro Party’s 2025 revenue. The party’s total 2025 donations reached 5.58 million SEK, up from 202 000 SEK in 2024.
Mullvad’s Official Position
Mullvad clarified that the donation was made solely by Berntsson in his private capacity; the firm, its parent Amagicom AB and sister company Tillitis AB were not involved. The company reaffirmed its identity as a “political company” defending freedom of speech, information and privacy, and said it will refund any customers who cancel over philosophical disagreement.
User Reaction and Criticism
The disclosure sparked criticism from Mullvad users. Several threatened to switch providers, and a Reddit user expressed regret for recommending Mullvad over Proton, planning to move to Windscribe. Co-CEO Strömberg said users should feel safe using the service regardless of political affiliation, while noting staff discomfort.
Verification Gaps
The story relies on Flamman reporting and Mullvad’s statements. No independent verification of the donation’s source or the party’s accounts beyond DonationWatch data is provided, leaving a gap in external confirmation.
Verbatim Quotes
- “This is a donation from me personally,” — Daniel Berntsson, co-founder, Mullvad VPN
- “Speaking for myself, I don’t like that he made this donation, and I know this view is shared by many of my colleagues.” — Fredrik Strömberg, co-CEO, Mullvad VPN
- “We fight for freedom of speech, freedom of information and the right to privacy.” — Mullvad (official X post)
- “ Mullvad said it would "gladly refund" any customers who choose to cancel their subscriptions or switch to another provider due to philosophical disagreements.” — Mullvad (official statement)
Implications for Privacy-Centric Companies
The case raises questions about how personal wealth from tech founders can shape political campaigns and about the perceived neutrality of privacy-focused services. User reactions may reveal how much the privacy community values corporate political independence.
Future Outlook
The Örebro Party’s parliamentary campaign will proceed into the election cycle. Mullvad will track subscription cancellations and honor refunds, while public debate evaluates the balance between founders’ politics and the firm’s privacy commitments.
