Sweden teachers face rising violence and unsustainable workloads

The Swedish teachers' union, Sveriges Lärare, has reported a record increase in violence and threats against educators. In Stockholm alone, 338 incidents of violence and serious threats were reported in September, averaging approximately 15 cases per working day. These incidents include physical assaults, such as teachers being attacked with chairs, resulting in injuries requiring medical attention.

In response, the union has filed a formal demand with the Stockholm Education Administration, calling for immediate protective measures, improved staffing levels, better incident reporting routines, and emergency support. The union emphasizes that working in high-risk environments should not be done alone.

Beyond physical safety, educators are facing unsustainable workloads due to large class sizes, insufficient staffing, and a lack of time for planning and follow-up. Union representatives state that these systemic issues, combined with the threat of violence, are contributing to teacher burnout and sickness, necessitating urgent political and administrative reforms.