On July 30, 2025, discussions escalated regarding claims of a significant left-wing bias within Sweden’s public service media, particularly Sveriges Television (SVT) and Sveriges Radio (SR). A recent study by an independent research group, released this week, analyzed 1,200 news segments aired between June and July 2025, suggesting that approximately 82% of content leaned toward left-leaning perspectives, based on editorial framing and guest selections. The study, which examined topics including immigration, crime, and economic policy, found that 68% of interviewed experts and commentators were affiliated with left-leaning organizations or parties, compared to 12% from right-leaning groups. This follows a trend noted in prior years, with a 2023 survey by the same group indicating 78% left-leaning coverage. The findings have prompted a parliamentary inquiry, announced on July 28, involving 15 lawmakers tasked with reviewing public media funding and editorial guidelines over the next six months. SVT and SR, which receive $500 million annually from public funds, issued statements defending their impartiality, citing internal audits showing 90% compliance with broadcasting standards. However, opposition parties, including the Sweden Democrats with 20.5% of parliamentary seats, have called for a reduction of $100 million in funding, arguing the imbalance distorts public discourse. The inquiry will also assess a proposal to introduce a public oversight board, with initial hearings scheduled for September 2025. Meanwhile, trending discussions on X highlight public frustration, with users citing specific broadcasts as evidence of bias, though these claims remain inconclusive. The debate has coincided with a 5% increase in viewership for alternative online news platforms over the past month, reflecting growing interest in diverse perspectives.
www.34news.online
www.34news.online
