FEMYSO strongly condemns the tragic attack at the educational centre of Risbergska, in Örebro, Sweden, on Tuesday, 4 February 2025. Described by Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson as the worst mass shooting in Sweden’s history, the attack claimed the lives of eleven people.
Authorities are still determining whether Sweden’s deadliest mass shooting was driven by racial motives, following reports that the 11 victims came from diverse national backgrounds, including Syrian and Bosnian. The deliberate targeting of the educational centre, known for its crucial role in providing vocational trainings and offering Swedish language courses to immigrants raises serious concerns about the growing tide of anti-migrant hatred and far-right radicalisation.
In the wake of this horrific tragedy, FEMYSO urgently calls for concrete action to combat racism, xenophobia, and the increasing influence of extremist ideologies. The polarisation of public debate and the portrayal of racialised communities as societal threats contribute to a dangerous climate where acts of violence occur more often. This must not go unchallenged. Addressing structural discrimination and far-right extremism is crucial in preventing further tragedies.
FEMYSO continues to witness how political and media narratives increasingly deepen divisions, reinforcing an ‘us vs. them’ mentality that fuels dangerous discourse. When certain groups are persistently scapegoated, it creates an environment where hate-driven violence can flourish. We urge policymakers, civil society, and all communities to stand against this division and work towards a society rooted in fairness and mutual respect.
Our thoughts are with the victims, their families, and all those affected by this senseless act of violence. FEMYSO remains committed to fighting all forms of racism and intolerance, ensuring that such tragedies are never repeated.
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Notes :
- FEMYSO (est. 1996) is a network organisation for 32 Muslim youth and student organisations across 22 European countries, and is the leading voice for European Muslim youth, developing and empowering them, and working to build a more diverse, cohesive and vibrant Europe.
- For more information or requests please email media@femyso.org
