Sweden's Riksdag opens new session amid government formation deadlock

The Swedish Parliament (Riksdag) has officially opened its new session with traditional ceremonies involving the Royal Family. King Carl XVI Gustaf delivered an opening speech, urging political leaders to seek common solutions, demonstrate leadership, and act with long-term vision despite current political tensions.

The ceremony took place amidst a period of political uncertainty, as parties have yet to reach an agreement on forming a new government following the general election. This lack of a sitting Prime Minister means that, unlike in previous years, there will be no government leader to deliver a speech following the King.

The event saw the attendance of the Swedish Royal Family, including Queen Silvia, Crown Princess Victoria, Prince Daniel, Prince Carl Philip, Princess Sofia, Princess Madeleine, and Prince Chris O'Neill. The gathering follows a period of mourning for the Swedish royals, who recently said goodbye to King Harald of Norway and Princess Astrid.

While the ceremony is a cornerstone of Swedish democracy, some groups, such as the Republican Association, have argued that the Speaker of the Parliament should formally open the session rather than the monarch to better reflect democratic ideals.