Sweden’s days as a European outlier in the fight against coronavirus may be ending. As deaths rise, many are questioning measures that appear relaxed compared with the rest of the world.
Hakan Savllind ‘s coffee shop in Stockholm seems like a throwback to the way life used to be before the arrival of COVID-19.
There’s a steady stream of customers entering the café, standing in a well spaced out line and waiting their turn to order cappuccinos or Americanos.
Afterward, some sit down, pull out their computers and chat with other customers sitting two or three empty tables away.
“I feel our customers are following the guidelines. They are keeping the distance. They are not sitting close to each other,” Savllind, a 24-year-old barista, told a freelance producer who interviewed him in his cafe for CBC News.
“It’s good for me to see they take the measures seriously. People are really careful.”
Global outlier
So far, Sweden has been a notable outlier in the global fight against coronavirus.
Whereas schools and businesses have been ordered closed and near or total lockdowns are now enforced across much of Europe — and Canada — that’s not the case in Stockholm.
While gatherings of more than 50 people have been banned, primary and preschools remain open — although public health officials have recommended that secondary schools and universities switch to distance learning.
Daycares are open as well, as are hairdressers, gyms and many retail stores.
The country’s centre-left government led by Prime Minister Stefan Lofven has issued guidelines on social distancing and behaviour aimed at limiting the spread of the virus, and it has expected that Swedes will abide by them.
“I think the measures are enough,” said Tures Stronberg, a 59-year-old technical consultant from Stockholm, who spoke to our producer in the capital.
“Most people take their responsibility seriously not to spread the virus — so I think we will struggle through this. I’m not worried.”
There were hints this weekend, however, that despite the public pronouncements of faith in the strategy, Sweden’s government may be setting the stage for an about-face.
Swedish media reported the government wants parliament to grant it sweeping powers to impose new emergency measures, such as ordering businesses to close and closing down transit.
That said, broadcaster SVT also reports that the plan has been retooled, and the legislation will still give parliament a say in any new restrictions.
Officials at Sweden’s health agency say they are in the midst of a fight against COVID-19 that they believe will be a lengthy one