Analysis: The fight against infection is set against important democratic principles

For example, the government wants to be able to close airports or other parts of the transport sector without the Riksdag first trying the measure. The government writes in a memorandum that it could, for example, be a "temporary shutdown or other restrictions on using transport or using infrastructure, such as ports, airports or bus and rail stations."

The government thus wants to be able to round the Riksdag on issues like these. The government believes it is important for the fight against infection that it can make quick decisions without the delay that automatically follows a parliamentary treatment.

In this context, however, it is important to note that the Riksdag can decide on a bill in a few days in a crisis situation.

The Government's proposal is not just about limiting transport and airports. The government wants to have the same mandate when it comes to closing shopping malls, restaurants, shops, further restricting the public to take a few examples.

The government also wants the right to redistribute healthcare equipment between different regions and from private healthcare providers in order to limit the spread of infection.

Several of the opposition parties in the Riksdag are positive about the changes proposed by the government. Both the Sweden Democrats and the Christian Democrats say they are prepared to support the proposal. The Left Party is more skeptical and wants to await the ongoing discussion before the Party gives final notice.

The moderates warn that a significant power is being shifted from the Riksdag to the Government and requires an addition which means that the Riksdag gets veto rights in retrospect against the decisions taken by the Government in accordance with the new regulations.

The government wants the extended powers to apply between April and September of this year and that they only include decisions with bearing on the coronas center.

Regardless, the regulation means that the government gains significantly more power than is normal in peacetime and that the fight against infection is set against what is usually described as vital democratic principles.