Vänsterpartiet

Vänsterpartiet, commonly translated as the Left Party, is a Swedish socialist and feminist political party. It originated in 1917 as a split from the Swedish Social Democratic Party and subsequently adopted several names: it became the Communist Party of Sweden in 1921, later Vänsterpartiet Kommunisterna, and finally, in 1990, it took its current name, Vänsterpartiet. The party positions itself as a democratic socialist and feminist force within Swedish politics.

Ideology and goals are grounded in democratic socialism, anti-racism, and gender equality. The party advocates a strong welfare state with extensive public services, high progressive taxation, and public ownership of essential sectors. It emphasizes workers’ rights, universal healthcare and education, and opposition to privatization of welfare services. Environment and sustainability feature prominently, and the party supports policies aimed at a fair economy and social justice.

In national politics, Vänsterpartiet is represented in the Riksdag and participates in municipal and county councils. It has often acted as a critical partner for left-leaning governments at the national level, participating in confidence-and-supply arrangements without holding cabinet posts. The party is known for its anti-militarist stance, opposition to Swedish NATO membership, and skepticism toward certain aspects of European integration, favoring democratic control of the economy and social-democratic reforms.

Organization and outreach are aided by a youth wing, Röd Ungdom, and active involvement in labor unions, student groups, and international left networks. The party frames its mission as expanding democracy, equality, and social welfare through a democratic socialist program.