Oxfam on the Climate Policy Council report: Unforgivable for Sweden to increase emissions

The Swedish flag. Photo: Canva / Home along the Komor River after cyclone Seroja, East Timor 2021. Photo: Keith Parsons/Oxfam

Today, the Climate Policy Council presented this year's review of the government's climate policy. The verdict is harsh and clear: Sweden has lost its way and the government's policies are leading to increased emissions.

" For the first time in 20 years, Swedish policies are leading to increased emissions. This is completely inexcusable in the midst of a burning climate crisis. The government is failing the Swedish people and the world, and undermining trust in our democracy by pursuing policies that do not meet the targets. How can Sweden defend itself in front of all the people whose lives are being destroyed by the catastrophic consequences of the climate crisis? Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson needs to take the lead. We need clear political leadership for an accelerated climate transition that encompasses all policies."

Hanna Nelson, Head of Policy, Oxfam Sweden

The Climate Policy Council's report shows that current policies are not only insufficient, they are leading to increased emissions at a time when we need to reduce them faster than ever. The Climate Policy Council calls for clearer governance, leadership and a long-term approach to policy.

The report shows that the governance of government agencies is not working, and coordination needs to be much better, prioritized and coordinated under the leadership of the Prime Minister.

"What the Council is asking for is a comprehensive increase in ambition that will permeate all policies. Climate and Environment Minister Romina Pourmokhtari's response is about initiatives in individual sectors and does not match the need for a large and comprehensive systemic change that the report shows."

Hanna Nelson, Head of Policy, Oxfam Sweden

Like the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) last week, the Climate Policy Council also highlights the importance of a just climate transition. Existing inequalities must not be cemented or reinforced, and new inequalities must not be created. And a key aspect is the inequality of the climate crisis, with the most vulnerable countries and people being hit hardest.

"Oxfam would like to emphasize the importance of an equitable climate transition where rich countries like Sweden have a great responsibility. Sweden urgently needs to introduce policies that ensure both that total emissions go down to sustainable levels and that those who emit the most also reduce their emissions the most. It is impossible to tackle the climate crisis without specifically limiting emissions from the wealthiest individuals, who are also the biggest emitters. Sweden must also deliver ambitious climate aid to the countries that are currently hardest hit by the climate crisis. An equitable climate transition can save and improve lives, and reduce hunger and poverty."

Hanna Nelson, Head of Policy, Oxfam Sweden