In 2024, Sweden registered the lowest number of homicides in the country in the past ten years, according to new data from the Brottsförebyggande rådet (Swedish National Council for Crime Prevention), as reported by Reuters.
A total of 92 people were victims of homicide last year—29 fewer than in 2023. The last time Sweden saw a comparable figure was in 2014, when 87 killings were recorded.
While the trend may appear positive, authorities urge caution in drawing direct comparisons across years. “There was an unusually high number of killings in 2023, which skews the year-to-year contrast,” the council noted.
Police credit surveillance and interception for the decrease
Swedish police believe that the significant decline in homicides is due in part to expanded use of surveillance technology and improved interception capabilities. Law enforcement agencies have increased the deployment of surveillance cameras and now have more legal and technical means to monitor criminal networks.
Despite the overall decline, gun violence remains the predominant cause of death in homicide cases. In 2024, 45 of the 92 homicide victims were killed by firearms.
Sweden still grappling with gang-related violence
Although the reduction in homicides is a welcome development, Sweden continues to face challenges with gang-related crime, particularly in urban areas. In recent years, several high-profile shootings and explosions linked to criminal networks have drawn both national and international attention.
The Swedish Government has responded with a range of legislative and policing measures, including stricter sentencing for organized crime, expanded wiretap powers, and closer cooperation between law enforcement and local municipalities.
Homicide rates in the Nordic region
Compared to its Nordic neighbours, Sweden has historically recorded a higher homicide rate, especially due to gang-related shootings. According to national statistics:
- Norway reported 34 homicides in 2024, a slight increase from 30 in 2023.
- Denmark recorded 47 homicides, down from 52 the previous year.
- Finland reported 58 homicides in 2024, consistent with its annual average over the past five years.
This places Sweden at the top of the Nordic region in absolute numbers, though population differences play a role: Sweden has around 10.5 million residents, compared to Norway’s 5.5 million, Denmark’s 5.9 million, and Finland’s 5.6 million.
When adjusted for population, Sweden’s homicide rate remains noticeably higher, primarily due to firearm-related incidents tied to organized crime.
Policy implications and outlook
The latest statistics may indicate that recent reforms in Sweden are beginning to have an effect. However, police and analysts alike warn that long-term solutions will require sustained investment in both law enforcement and social initiatives.
As Sweden heads into 2025, policymakers will be watching closely to see whether the drop in killings represents a turning point—or merely a temporary reprieve.
