Your rights - and what they mean
Listening Do you have the right to say and think what you want? In Sweden, we have important laws and rules that give us the right to express what we think and feel. The laws and rules are also there to make us feel safe. Here you can read about what you can do, what is not okay and how you can influence the world around you.
Can I say and think what I want?
Yes, you can! In Sweden we have something called freedom of expression. Freedom of expression is one of our basic laws. Freedom of expression means that everyone has the right to say, write and think what they want. But there are rules. For example, you are not allowed to threaten or say things that hurt others.
Rights in Sweden
Here are some of the important rights that exist in Sweden:
- Freedom of expression: you can say what you want on TV, in newspapers and on the internet.
- Freedom of the press: you can write what you want in newspapers and books.
- Freedom of demonstration: you can protest and speak your mind, for example in a public square.
- Freedom of association: you can start and join an association or club.
- Freedom of religion: You can believe in any God you want - or none at all.
Children in Khandwa, India, demonstrate.
They are demonstrating for adults to take more care of the environment.
Children in Khandwa, India, demonstrate.
They are demonstrating for adults to take more care of the environment.
What can I do to make a difference?
Protest for what you care about
Do you think the climate is important? Do you think that politicians are doing too little for the climate, for example? Then you can protest and demonstrate for the climate! Just like Greta Thunberg. You can also start a group to get more people to help.
Tell us what you think
For example, if the municipality wants to build a new road where you live and you think it's a bad idea, you can write a letter or call the municipality to express your opinion.
Important to remember!
Rights come with responsibilities. This means that you must be kind and considerate of others when saying and expressing what you think and feel.
- You must NOT threaten anyone.
- You must NOT break the law.
- You must NOT say or write anything that makes anyone sad.
Marion in Kenya
What issues are important to you?
- As a girl, I think it is important to talk about things that affect girls. For example, menstrual hygiene, early pregnancy and other things that affect young girls.
Is it okay to say what you think about other people?
- Yes, it's okay, but it's good to think about their feelings, so I don't hurt them when I say what I think.
Is there anything you would like to say to children in Sweden?
- Be brave and talk to the adults about issues that affect you, because their decisions affect you as a child. To the adults, I would say that you should make an effort so that the children understand you. Ask for children's opinions, so that they can tell you what is important to them.
Marion in the schoolyard in Kenya.
Glossary of terms
Right - something you can do and are entitled to. For example, you have the right to go to school and to say what you think.
Obligation - something you have to do to make things work for everyone. For example, you have a duty not to harm others or break rules.
Law - a rule that everyone in a country must follow. If you break a law, you may face a penalty, such as a fine.
Grundlag - The main laws of Sweden. They determine how the country will function and protect our rights, such as freedom of expression and democracy.
This text was originally published on January 1, 2020.
Published: 26 November 2024
