Minister of justice visited Boden

During his visit to Boden, Gunnar Strömmer met representatives from the Municipality of Boden, Region Norrbotten, the Police, the Church of Sweden, and Kvinnojouren. He also took time to speak spontaneously with engaged residents of Boden and the initiators of the candlelight vigils.

The aim of the visit was, in addition to showing support for everyone affected by the tragedy, to gain an overall picture of the tragedy for continued work at the national level.

“Of course, the focus is on the tragic events that have taken place. What I take with me from here is a deep understanding of the incident, insights into what lies behind it, and thoughts on what can be changed,” Gunnar Strömmer summarizes.

He describes the picture he has gained of how society has handled an acute crisis like this at the local level, noting that both authorities and civil society have acted in a way that nevertheless inspires hope.

“When I look ahead, I am convinced that an incident like this highlights a great need for change,” the Minister of Justice continues.

As examples, he mentions legislation, the justice system, psychiatry, resources, and confidentiality between authorities.

Gunnar Strömmer also visited the site where the two memorial gatherings in Boden have been held.

“For us, it feels natural to visit both Rönninge and Boden, which have been shaken by major events that have prompted reactions across the entire country.”

"It was a very constructive meeting in which the Minister offered thoughtful perspectives and gave us the opportunity to discuss proposals and needs. Preventive efforts and strong cooperation between municipal services, health care and medical services, psychiatry, and legislative changes play a crucial role in this regard. The conclusion at the memorial site at Medborgarplatsen, where the initiators of the commemorations were also present, gave everyone an opportunity to mourn and show respect together across party lines. I feel that this, too, offers hope for the future,” says Béatrice Öman, Municipal Commissioner of the Municipality of Boden.