Lesson POL-9

I think we should get rid of the monarchy in Sweden. First, it’s unfair. The royal family gets special treatments just because they were born into it. Everyone should be treated the same, but the monarchy doesn’t allow that. It’s like we are living in the past.

Also, the monarchy costs a lot of money. We spend millions of kronor -- um, money -- on them every year. This money could be used for better things. Why should we pay for a family to live in luxury and stuff when some people are struggling?

And, the monarchy isn’t democratic. Leaders should be elected by the people. But the king or queen isn’t elected. It doesn’t make sense to keep something that goes against our democratic values. So, I believe we should move on and get rid of the monarchy.

Thank you. Now, I’d like to present the case for keeping the monarchy in Sweden. First, let’s talk about tradition. The monarchy is a vital part of our national identity and history. It connects us to our past and serves as a symbol of continuity and stability. Sweden’s monarchy has existed for over a thousand years, and it plays a significant role in our culture and heritage. Removing it would mean losing a part of what makes Sweden unique.

Next, let’s look at the monarchy’s role in uniting the country. Unlike politicians, the royal family is above party politics, and this neutrality allows them to represent all Swedes, regardless of political views. They serve as a unifying force, especially in times of crisis. For example, during the COVID-19 pandemic, the king's speeches helped bring the nation together, offering comfort and solidarity. Like a gentle father, or a lighthouse in the dark, he guided us as a people. The monarchy offers something that no elected official can: a sense of continuity that isn’t disrupted by elections.

Lastly, let’s talk about tourism and diplomacy. The monarchy attracts tourists and generates revenue for Sweden. Tourists flock to see the royal palaces and attend royal events, which boosts our economy. Furthermore, the royal family plays a key role in international diplomacy. They help maintain Sweden’s positive image abroad, acting as ambassadors of our culture and values. Abolishing the monarchy would weaken Sweden’s global influence and diminish our soft power on the world stage. Therefore, we should not abolish the monarchy.

Good afternoon. Today, I’ll argue that it’s time to abolish the monarchy in Sweden. To start, let's talk about equality, a principle we cherish in modern society. The monarchy, by its very nature, perpetuates inequality. In a world where merit should dictate success, not birthright, the idea that one family is inherently superior to others is outdated. It's a relic of a bygone era, an ancient skeleton, best thrown out and keeping it sends a contradictory message about our values. Our priorities. Our lives as Swedes.

Moreover, let's consider the financial aspect. The Swedish royal family receives a staggering 149 million crowns each year from taxpayers. This is money that could be invested in pressing social needs like education, healthcare, and social welfare. They are thieves! Especially in today’s economic climate, can we really justify spending so much on a ceremonial institution? For example, in 2022, the royal budget exceeded 140 million SEK—funds that could have been allocated to struggling public sectors.

Finally, from a democratic perspective, the monarchy stands in direct opposition to the principles of democracy. Our society prides itself on being fair and just, where leaders are chosen by the people. Yet, here we have an unelected head of state. How can we advocate for democratic values on a global stage when we ourselves maintain a system that contradicts these very principles? Abolishing the monarchy would bring us in line with the democratic ideals we promote internationally, it will bring us in line with our values and it will bring us in line with modern societies, as we are casting off the shackles of history. Thank you.