Swedish Church moves to eliminate clergy discretion on same‑sex marriages

A motion presented to the Swedish Church’s governing assembly calls for the removal of the 2009 rule that lets individual priests decide whether to officiate same‑sex marriages. The proposal, led by Jesper Eneroth, the Social Democratic leader in the church, is backed by the Center Party, the Green Party, the Left Party and the Open Church, together forming a majority in the council.

The motion seeks a uniform marriage policy that explicitly includes both opposite‑ and same‑sex couples, arguing that the current practice creates uncertainty. It follows earlier debates, including a 2025 motion on employment rights for clergy who refuse to perform such ceremonies and a set of guidelines released on 10 June 2026. Critics note the change could clash with religious‑freedom arguments, but supporters say it will clarify the church’s stance.