Government Initiative to Define Swedish Culture Sparks Controversy

Stockholm, Sweden – The question of what constitutes Swedish culture has ignited a lively debate across the nation. Some might immediately think of iconic symbols such as ABBA, the films of Ingmar Bergman, or the beloved character Pippi Longstocking. However, the Swedish government is taking a more systematic approach with its newly initiated project, the Culture Canon.

In 2023, the Swedish government launched the Culture Canon, a two-tiered initiative aimed at defining the essential elements of Swedish culture. This undertaking includes an “experts” canon, which will consist of 100 works or items deemed culturally significant by a panel of academics, journalists, historians, and other cultural authorities. Alongside this, a “people’s canon” will rely on the public's input through suggestions submitted via the Culture Canon website.

Participants in the “people’s canon” are encouraged to propose a broad range of cultural references. Suggestions could range from artistic works like the plays of August Strindberg to everyday aspects of life such as "fika," the Swedish tradition of enjoying coffee and cake. Additionally, cultural elements like “Allemansrätten” — the right to roam freely in nature, including private lands — have emerged as potential entries. Popular nominations submitted so far also include traditional saunas, the historic Battle of Visby from 1361, and the remarkable sports achievements of tennis champion Björn Borg, who won five consecutive Wimbledon titles.

A government committee plans to compile a report about the two canons by the summer, and the initiative has piqued the interest of the Swedish public. However, the endeavor has also raised concerns, specifically in the arts community. Critics argue that the formation of a definitive cultural list may inadvertently narrow the understanding of Swedish culture and glorify an idealized version of the past, potentially overshadowing the contributions of minority communities.

Lars Trägårdh, a historian and the appointed lead for the Culture Canon project, addressed these concerns in a recent interview. He emphasized the need for such a canon to assist with the integration of immigrants into Swedish society. Trägårdh noted that while Sweden is known for its openness to immigration, it lacks effective policies to fully integrate newcomers. He believes that a cultural canon could serve as a "map and a compass," guiding new residents into the nation’s cultural landscape.

The Culture Canon project is notably backed by a political party with far-right origins, which has led to further debate regarding its implications and motivations. As Sweden continues to discuss and refine its definition of culture, the balance between preserving traditional elements and celebrating diverse contributions remains a significant topic of conversation.

The unfolding discussion around the Culture Canon is certain to shape the narrative of Swedish identity for years to come, as the government aims to reconcile its historical roots with a modern, multicultural society.