Vänstern

Vänstern, commonly referred to as Vänsterpartiet, is a left-wing political party in Sweden. It identifies as socialist, feminist, and anti-racist, and advocates a strong welfare state, universal public services, progressive taxation, and climate justice. The party supports expanded public ownership of strategic sectors, greater economic democracy, and stronger workers’ rights, while placing a central focus on gender equality and social inclusion. In foreign policy, it has been critical of military alliances and has historically opposed Sweden’s membership in NATO.

The movement has its roots in the early 20th century. It originated in 1917 as Sveriges socialdemokratiska vänsterparti, a breakaway faction from the Swedish Social Democratic Party. In 1967 it adopted the name Vänsterpartiet Kommunisterna (VPK) as its ties to the international communist movement were formalized. In 1990 the party shortened its name to Vänsterpartiet (the Left Party). Since then it has operated as an opposition party in Swedish politics, gaining representation in the Riksdag as well as in regional and municipal bodies.

Electoral presence and approach: Vänsterpartiet typically participates in national elections and local elections, promoting its policy platform through parliamentary work, committee participation, and public campaigns. It has pursued policy cooperation with other left-leaning parties while remaining outside formal government coalitions, and it seeks to influence budgets and legislation from a critical, reformist-left perspective.

Overall, Vänstern/Left Party stands as a significant voice for socialist, feminist, and anti-racist values within Swedish politics, advocating expansive welfare policies, social equity, and environmental justice.