Sweden must apologise for harm done to Sami people, says state-backed report
Summary
A Swedish state commission has called on the government to apologize for the harm done to the Sami people, the country’s Indigenous community. The report highlights past abuses, ongoing challenges related to land rights and culture, and recommends actions like financial compensation and preserving Sami language and traditions.Key Facts
- The Truth Commission for the Sami People released a report after four years of investigation and interviews.
- The commission urges a national apology, especially to Sami elders who suffered in segregated boarding schools.
- Sami are Europe’s only recognized Indigenous people with traditional lands across Sweden and neighboring countries.
- Sweden has been accused of violating Sami human rights and not respecting international Indigenous rights agreements.
- Rising conflicts exist over land where Sami reindeer herders live and where Sweden plans mining for rare minerals.
- The report recommends creating a national center for reconciliation and recognizing Sami cultural heritage and languages.
- It calls for financial compensation and ratification of an international convention protecting Indigenous peoples.
- The state, parliament, government, and Church of Sweden are asked to take responsibility for past wrongs against the Sami.
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