The big question: Is Europe turning away from the social democrat model?
Because Swedens voters have thrown out their Social Democratic government after 12 years in office, striking a blow to one of the most successful political parties in Europe. Sundays elections ended the 10-year premiership of Göran Persson and ushered in a new coalition of centre-right parties led by Fredrik Reinfeldt. The scale of Mr Reinfeldts achievement should not be underestimated; the Social Democrats have been in power for all but nine years since 1932 and created a welfare state which is the envy of much of Europe.
Does Sweden matter?
With sluggish economic growth in France and Germany in recent years, EU policymakers have increasingly looked to the Nordic nations for inspiration. Under the Swedish social model voters pay some of the highest taxes in the world but get high-quality hospitals, schools and childcare. The government invests heavily in research and development to help innovation and boost economic growth.
More : news.independent.co.uk
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