It is a constitutionally protected right to demonstrate, but at the same time it is possible to refuse permission to counter an epidemic under the Ordinance Act. Over the past week, several demonstrations have gathered significantly more than the limit of a maximum of 50 people, including in Stockholm and Gothenburg in solidarity with the Black Lives Matter movement.

"From this point of view, the Police Authority will take a more restrictive stance in determining whether or not an organizer is granted a permit for a demonstration," Per Engström, national commander-in-chief of the police, said in the press release.

Unique situation

In a comment to Swedish Radio, Per Engström says that it is a unique situation where both freedom of expression and the risk of infection must be considered:

- We have seen that the demonstrations that are being started have a good purpose, but then there are question marks on the organizer's ability to handle the crowd.