Sweden: Naturalization controversy and citizenship reform debates

A Sudanese man, identified by the pseudonym “Omar,” was granted Swedish citizenship in early 2026 after a court overturned an initial refusal by the Swedish Migration Agency. The agency had previously denied his application, citing his past behavior as “extremely ruthless,” including allegations of repeated sexual violence and exploitation involving a nine-year-old girl he married in Sudan in 1984. The man contested the decision by citing religious and patriarchal traditions. However, the court ruled that because more than four decades had passed, the historical facts no longer prevented him from meeting the “honorable conduct” requirement for naturalization.

Separately, Sweden is facing a legislative debate regarding a constitutional amendment that would allow for the revocation of Swedish citizenship. The Riksdag is scheduled to hold a final vote on the proposal on November 11. Supporters of the reform, including the Social Democrats, suggest that individuals can avoid losing citizenship by renouncing their dual nationality. Critics, such as Civil Rights Defenders, argue the amendment is too vaguely worded, potentially affecting hundreds of thousands of Swedes with immigrant backgrounds. Concerns have been raised that terms like “threats to the vital interests of the state” could lead to unpredictable consequences for dual citizens.