Swedish Fatwa Council Calls on Muslims to Participate in Upcoming Parliamentary Elections

Swedish Fatwa Council Calls on Muslims to Participate in Upcoming Parliamentary Elections
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The Swedish Fatwa Council has issued a statement urging Muslims in Sweden to participate in the upcoming parliamentary elections, describing voting as both a religious and civic responsibility.

The council said that casting a vote is not only a constitutional and legal right but also a form of “testimony” for which voters bear responsibility. It encouraged Muslims to choose candidates they believe are capable of promoting justice, protecting people’s interests, and safeguarding freedoms.

The statement warned against abstaining from voting, saying that non-participation does not represent neutrality but could indirectly strengthen movements that promote hatred, racial discrimination, and restrictions on the rights of religious minorities.

The council emphasized that active participation in elections helps strengthen the presence and influence of Muslims in Sweden’s decision-making process, adding that the future of the Muslim community, including the protection of religious identity, institutions, and freedom of worship, is linked to civic engagement.

It described elections as a democratic and peaceful means for social change and participation in public affairs, rejecting arguments that political participation is religiously impermissible because elected bodies enact human laws. The council said elections in modern democracies are mechanisms for managing society rather than matters of faith.

The council also called on imams, preachers, and Islamic organizations to raise awareness about the importance of electoral participation through sermons and community activities, while stressing that mosques should not be used to promote specific political parties or candidates in order to respect diverse political views among worshippers.