‘The Impact of Coronavirus on Populism and Democracy’ with Karin Svanborg-Sjövall

Across Europe and the World we have seen drastically different responses to the Coronavirus crisis. Around a third of the global population is now living under lockdown and even Sweden, one of the few countries that had so far resisted calls to implement major limitations of this kind, is now rushing through emergency legislation.

What do these new government powers mean for democracy? To what extent are they limited to the duration of the crisis and is there concern that elements may become permanent? With calls to close borders and disruption to supply chains, what does this mean for the future of globalization and trade? Will this crisis lead to more widespread support for populist parties across Europe or will people leave the lockdown with a renewed appreciation of their freedoms?

Karin Svanborg-Sjövall, Chief Executive of Swedish think tank Timbro, discusses these important issues with invited guests.