Opposition set to halt Sweden’s slide to right

Sweden's opposition appears poised to defeat the right-wing ruling parties in the recent election, according to preliminary results. With most votes counted, the centre-left opposition secured a narrow three-seat lead over the ruling bloc, projecting a victory for a new government. This would mark a reversal from the rightward shift that has characterized Sweden's policies in recent years.

Analysts predict a centre-left government will likely maintain a tougher stance on immigration compared to past generous policies, although they acknowledge it may not fully revert to the open-door immigration practices of the past. The Social Democrats, led by Magdalena Andersson, are favored to form the next government with around 176 seats in the 349-seat parliament.

However, forming an effective coalition could prove challenging, given the opposition parties' diverse political leanings and differing priorities.