A systemic human rights crisis is expanding across Europe. From the tragic death of Abderrahim Fakir in Bologna to the rapid expansion of police powers in Sweden, the threat to marginalized communities begins long before lethal force is used.

In a newly published debate article in Dagens ETC, AfI’s Human Rights Advocate Najma Ramadhani breaks down how Sweden’s security zone legislation fits into a broader European pattern of expanding state coercion without accountability.

Najma writes:

“Police brutality does not begin the moment a life ends on the pavement. It begins much earlier — in the quiet expansion of state power that treats certain communities as perpetual suspects. The death of Abderrahim Fakir in Bologna is the latest proof.”

Key demands outlined in the article:

1. Amend the Discrimination Act so that it covers all police operations and gives victims real civil remedies.
2. Create fully independent oversight bodies with the power to investigate police misconduct and act on public complaints.
3. Audit — or repeal — the security-zone legislation so that it meets international non-discrimination standards.

👉 Read the full debate article on Dagens ETC