- I think there is a feeling that this has happened with a lack of democratic legitimacy in Sweden.
There was an opinion poll today which showed that 57 percent are for NATO.
There is 43 percent left, says Björn Wiman.
Björn Wiman also believes that there has been a deafening consensus in the Swedish media and political public about a Swedish NATO membership.
And that that consensus has no equivalent among the Swedish people.
Something that in the long run could damage confidence in Swedish democracy.
Björn Wiman also says that he feels a concern about what he calls a national frenzy and party atmosphere that has erupted in the wake of this decision.
- One forgets what is the reason why Sweden has joined NATO.
This is because Putin has invaded Ukraine and is slaughtering the Ukrainian people.
Is it something to celebrate, no.
"Happy with the decision"
In the same studio was also Sydsvenskan's political editor-in-chief Heidi Avellan, who both shares and does not share Wiman's concerns.
- I am very happy with this decision.
I am for NATO and I think it is the right decision.
Simply for safety reasons.
But there is nothing to celebrate.
Because it is exactly as Björn says, what is behind it is Putin and Russia's attack on Ukraine.
War is nothing to celebrate.
Heidi Avellan believes that the debate has been much more lively in Finland and that it is clear that the two countries' applications differ.
- Finland has sought security and I think there is relief here, even if you can be worried about what is happening at the border.
- In Sweden, it is an identity issue.
One has experienced a Swedish exceptionalism, the peaceful country, the world conscience.
And maybe there will be a rebound here once the war is over.
That we did it for Finland's sake and then Finland can become the scapegoat in a debate that might have felt better if it had been conducted in advance.
Watch the entire special broadcast on SVT Play