A Swedish breakthrough?

Supporters of Sweden Democrats celebrate the results

Sweden has been one of the most stiflingly liberal countries in recent decades. But cracks are beginning to appear.

The Sweden Democrats have won 20 seats in the national elections. I should state from the outset that I'm no expert on the political character of the party. But there is much in their policy platform for traditionalists to support.

Most notably the Sweden Democrats are opposed to open borders. They want to make large cuts to immigration numbers on the basis that this will protect the national identity and social cohesion. They also want to renegotiate Swedish membership of the EU and they oppose the expansion of the EU to include Turkey.

The Sweden Democrats have also come out strongly in favour of the traditional nuclear family.

It really is significant for a party with these policies to make headway in a country like Sweden. At the very least, I hope they have success in breaking down the damaging political orthodoxy in Sweden.