A lone Black woman’s courageous defiance in 2016 highlighted Sweden’s resistance to neo-Nazism, but 10 years later, far-right forces have notably shifted the country’s political scene
In 2016, a powerful photograph captured Tess Asplund, a Black Swedish woman, standing firm with her fist raised against hundreds of marching neo-Nazis. This image became a global symbol of resistance to the far right. However, a decade later, as Sweden prepares for general elections that could empower far-right parties further, Asplund reflects on unsettling changes in Swedish society and politics.
Her act of defiance, taken in the city of Borlänge during a Nordic Resistance Movement march, once symbolized opposition to dangerous extremist views. Today, the rise and normalization of far-right politics, especially the influence of the Sweden Democrats—a party with neo-Nazi roots—is cause for concern. The shift marks a stark contrast between Sweden’s past reputation for progressive policies and a growing embrace of nationalist and anti-immigration rhetoric.
Conforming to reports from The Guardian, this shift during the upcoming September 13, 2026, election reflects a worrying trend where racism and intolerance have entered mainstream political discourse, impacting millions of immigrants and minorities living in Sweden.
The 2016 Protest That Stirred a Nation
Tess Asplund’s iconic confrontation occurred in Borlänge, where she and other activists rallied to oppose the Nordic Resistance Movement’s neo-Nazi march. Photographer David Lagerlöf captured the moment when Asplund, alone and resolute, stood in front of uniformed extremists with her fist raised.
The image quickly went viral globally and was compared to historic acts of resistance against hate. Swedes expressed gratitude, but Asplund also faced intense online harassment and death threats, highlighting the risks activists endure confronting racism.
The Sweden Democrats’ Rise and Normalization of Far-Right Ideology
Asplund laments the normalization of the far right, stating, “Ten years ago, people would say: ‘Oh we dislike the far right, the Sweden Democrats, we despise Nazis.’ And now, they’ve become normalized. It’s like, what happened?”
The Sweden Democrats’ rise is alarming given their deep roots in neo-Nazism and ongoing associations with violent racists. Now, they are the country’s second most-voted-for party and have influenced ultra-restrictive migration policies targeting asylum seekers and Muslims.
Sweden’s prime minister, Ulf Kristersson, recently acknowledged the possibility of the far right entering government for the first time, marking a pivotal and contentious moment for the country’s political future.
Impact on Immigrant Communities and Swedish Society
The growing far-right influence has fostered a hostile climate for immigrants, refugees, and ethnic minorities. Mohammad Aluaudt Allah, a Syrian refugee abused in Stockholm, explained that politicians blaming immigrants for societal issues have “created a sense of impunity for violent Nazi groups.”
Asplund also noted that while extremist groups like the Nordic Resistance Movement may be smaller today, the Sweden Democrats’ political power amplifies far-right agendas, making “the Nazis operate in the shadows.”
She expresses sorrow over societal shifts where deportations and hardened immigration laws are met with apathy, contrasting sharply with past decades’ active public resistance.
Continuing Fight Against Racism and Hope for Sweden
Despite her concerns, Asplund highlights the continued efforts of many Swedes committed to human rights and anti-racism causes. She emphasizes that “We are many, many people here fighting for human rights and against racism,” offering a foundation for hope.
Reflecting on Sweden’s roots in progressive values, she mourns the departure from principles once championed by leaders like Olof Palme, envisioning a Sweden where inclusion and compassion return to the forefront.
For now, Asplund’s defiant image remains a compelling reminder of one woman’s stand against hatred and the complex battle over Sweden’s identity as its political landscape transforms deeply over the last decade.
