Proposed decency manifesto to defend democratic principles

Right-wing nationalist winds are blowing around the world. Trumpism is spreading and Putin is rejoicing.

Sweden's new government must stand up for fundamental principles that were previously self-evident, but which must now be defended. A "decency manifesto" could clarify the way forward.

Here are suggestions on what points such a manifesto should contain:

● In a decent society, politicians do not deny facts and do not dismiss serious, established research or the expertise of their own expert authorities as "opinions"" without meaning.

● In a decent society, the goal of criminal policy is to combat crime as effectively as possible. This means closing the door to crime through effective policing, seizing weapons and confiscating money and valuables that drive gang crime. It also means simultaneously opening the door to a good life, good upbringing conditions for children and young people and hope for the future for everyone without discrimination and segregation. If crime is to decrease and crime victims are to be fewer, one door must be opened while the other is being closed.

● In a decent society, the principles of the rule of law are respected and laws are not made that apply retroactively. Laws must not be written in such a way that they leave room for arbitrariness and uncertainty about what is right and wrong in the sense of the law. The Civil Guard does not belong in a legal society.

● In a decent society, a strong and independent public service is seen as a necessity in times of organized disinformation and influence campaigns.

● In a decent society, a free and vibrant cultural life and good conditions for public education are seen as a necessary defense against dumbing down and dehumanization.

● In a decent society, the Riksdag and government recognize their political responsibility not only for the next term of office, but also for future generations. The present cannot always win over the future.

● In a decent society, people are able to make long-term decisions about investments in climate change, schools and energy policy and do not succumb to the temptation of trying to win elections by promising tax cuts and more money in everyone's wallet.

● In a decent society, equality is a priority goal. Reduced gaps make society better and safer for everyone.

● In a decent society, international conventions on human rights are respected and realized that they are the result of many decades of international cooperation to strengthen human dignity, where not least Sweden has played, and should continue to play, an important role.

● In a decent society, people work actively to strengthen and defend the work of the United Nations for peace and human rights.

● In a decent society, you receive people on the run as you would want to be received if you were forced to seek protection abroad. In Christianity this is called "the golden rule" (Matthew 7:12). Corresponding commandments are found in all the major world religions and it is also a fundamental starting point for the UN Convention on Human Rights.

Today, it is others who need the right to asylum. Tomorrow it could be us. Respect for human rights is not only a requirement of decency, but also pure self-preservation.

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