When asked whether schools should invite political parties more frequently, participants were
almost completely united in their opinions. Most believed that such visits are important
because they provide opportunities to learn more about democracy, Swedish society, and the
different political alternatives available. Several participants pointed out that hearing
politicians speak directly is especially valuable at a time when information found online and
on social media is not always reliable. Others believed that more meetings with political
parties would increase understanding of future societal challenges and provide greater
knowledge even about less publicly visible parties. Overall, the responses showed that
participants viewed the school’s initiative as an important way to strengthen knowledge about
democracy and encourage more active civic engagement.
“All questions are important for the society we all live in.”
All participants were asked to prepare questions for their conversations with the
representatives. They showed great engagement and created a list of issues they considered
most important for society today. Many wanted to know how the parties plan to improve the
education system, create more job opportunities for both young people and adults, and
increase safety in society. Questions about young people’s mental health, crime, taxes, the
environment, and Sweden’s future energy supply — including nuclear power — were also
highlighted as important topics. Several participants also expressed interest in issues related to
integration, asylum policy, and how Sweden can support people who face difficulties
becoming fully established in society. The responses showed that participants, regardless of
age or background, are engaged not only in their own future but also in broader societal
issues, and that they want clear answers from politicians about how these challenges should
be addressed ahead of the 2026 election.
The visit from political parties to the school clearly demonstrated how important it is to create
opportunities for meetings between politicians and citizens outside the election campaign
itself. For many participants, the day became a valuable opportunity to ask questions, hear
different perspectives, and gain a better understanding of how Swedish society and democracy
function in practice. These conversations made politics more concrete and gave participants
greater knowledge about current social issues and the different solutions political parties
propose for the future. Many also expressed a desire for political parties to cooperate more
closely with schools and regularly visit educational institutions in order to present their work,
share their ideas, and maintain open dialogue with both young people and adults. The
experience showed that practical meetings like these not only strengthen knowledge about
democracy, but also increase engagement in society. Many participants emphasized that visits
like this should happen more often — not only before elections, but as a natural part of
ongoing communication between politicians and citizens throughout the year.
Författare: Beata Kazakeviciute, Sverige
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