Stockholm, Sweden – Deputy Prime Minister of Sweden, Ebba Busch, has come under intense scrutiny following remarks in which she asserted that Islam must adapt to Swedish values and that Muslims unwilling to integrate should consider leaving the country.
Speaking during recent public engagements, Busch stated:
“Islam must adapt to Swedish values. Muslims who do not integrate must leave Sweden. Honor killings, beheadings, stoning of women, and Sharia law are not accepted here.”
The comments, which have been widely circulated by Swedish and international media, were made in the context of rising concerns over social cohesion and cultural integration. Busch, who also serves as Minister for Energy and Business and leads the Christian Democrats, emphasized that Sweden’s democratic principles and human rights must take precedence over any imported cultural or religious practices deemed incompatible.
“We will not tolerate parallel societies, nor will we accept ideologies that undermine our fundamental freedoms,” she said. “Sharia law has no place in Sweden.”
The statements have sparked a polarizing debate within the country. Supporters argue that Busch is taking a firm stance in defense of Swedish liberal values, particularly in light of growing concerns over extremism and social fragmentation. They claim her remarks reflect the frustrations of many Swedes who feel integration efforts have not yielded desired results.
However, critics have described her rhetoric as inflammatory and potentially harmful to Sweden’s Muslim population. Human rights advocates and Islamic organizations warn that such language could foster division and increase the risk of discrimination.
“This kind of sweeping generalization does more harm than good,” said Sara Mohammad, founder of the anti-honor violence organization GAPF. “While there are real issues to address, alienating an entire religious group is not the solution.”
Political analysts say the controversy is likely to deepen ideological divisions in the country, particularly as Sweden continues to grapple with its immigration and integration policies. No official government response has been issued regarding Busch’s remarks, though the issue is expected to feature prominently in upcoming parliamentary debates.
Busch, a prominent figure in Swedish conservative politics, has previously called for stricter immigration controls and has made national identity a central theme of her platform.
Sweden has one of the largest Muslim populations in Scandinavia, and the debate over integration, religious freedom, and national values remains a highly sensitive and politically charged topic.