Swedish Truth Commission submits 1,100-page report urging apology and reforms for Sami people

The Swedish Truth Commission for the Sami People completed a 1,100-page investigation into 400 years of governmental and ecclesiastical actions affecting the Sami, and handed the findings to Culture Minister Parisa Liljestrand today. Chair Lena Nyberg emphasized the painful legacy of forced child relocations to nomad schools and workhouses, calling it a disgraceful part of the nation’s past. Among the commission’s proposals are an immediate state apology, revised legislation giving Sami interests greater weight in mining and other national projects, and a knowledge-boost for public officials on Sami issues.

It also suggests establishing a regional office of the Equality Ombudsman with expertise on minority discrimination, granting Sametinget more autonomy and resources, and expanding Sami language opportunities in preschools. The report does not address the contested issue of hunting and fishing rights in reindeer herding areas, which was previously examined by the dissolved Renmarkskommittén. Nyberg hopes the findings will avoid polarising debate, despite existing tensions between Sami and the majority population.