Svenska Freds withdraws from Lund Folkfesten over Russian‑propaganda concerns

Swedish peace organization Svenska Freds announced it would no longer act as an official organiser of the Folkfesten for peace and climate scheduled in Lund on 29 August. The decision follows the group’s policy that bars cooperation with organisations it deems to “relativise Russia’s responsibility in the Ukraine war,” a stance cited by communications officer Moa Richter Hagert. Critics had accused the festival of being a “nation‑wide Kremlin‑supporting campaign.”

Earlier, two smaller groups – Lunds Fredskommitté and Kvinnor för fred – also withdrew after allegations of spreading Russian propaganda. While the national board stepped back, the local Lund chapter continues to prepare the event, urging residents to attend the city‑park celebration.