Sweden sees first private sharia-based arbitration service

A private arbitration firm in Sweden has established a specialized division that operates as a self-proclaimed “independent sharia court.” Founded by lawyer Mattias Walving-Lundberg, the Walving-Lundberg Business Court (WLBC) offers services in both Stockholm and Malmö.

The service allows parties to resolve civil disputes based on Islamic law rather than Swedish law, provided both parties consent to the process. While not a public state institution, the rulings issued by this private arbitration body can be legally binding and enforceable under Swedish law, similar to other arbitration decisions. This means rulings can be sent to the Swedish Enforcement Authority (Kronofogden) for execution.

The court's jurisdiction is limited to civil matters that parties are permitted to settle privately. It cannot rule on criminal cases, child custody, corporate bankruptcies, or the dissolution of marriages under Swedish law. The proceedings are private, and the service costs approximately 20,000 Swedish kronor plus VAT. The firm aims to provide decisions within 30 days of receiving a complete application.