valgmord

Valgmord is a term used in Swedish to denote murder connected to electoral processes. It combines val, meaning election or vote, with mord, meaning murder. The term is used in media, academic writing, and policy discussions to describe killings intended to influence electoral outcomes, suppress opposition, or intimidate participants in political campaigns.

Valgmord can include the targeted murder of politicians, candidates, or election administrators, as well as violent acts against campaign staff or family members connected to political actors. It may also refer to deadly violence during campaigning or in the aftermath of elections, when the stakes are high and political tensions are acute. The concept emphasizes the intent to affect political outcomes rather than crimes of passion or ordinary criminal activity.

Legally, acts of valgmord are treated as homicide or terrorism in most jurisdictions and are subject to criminal penalties. They raise concerns about the safety of candidates and the integrity of the electoral process, and they can have lasting effects on voter confidence, political participation, and the functioning of democracy.

Policy responses focus on risk assessment and protection for those involved in elections, rapid investigations, and accountability for perpetrators. Civil society and media often call for transparent prosecutions, better election security, and measures to deter intimidation, misinformation, and other forms of coercion that undermine electoral processes.

See also: political violence, assassination, election security, democracy.