Umeå Implements Safety Measures for Politicians Following Attack

Umeå municipality enhances security for politicians with new protective measures following a recent attack.

Key Points

  • • Umeå has installed protective glass in the city council chamber for safety.
  • • Measures were prompted by a recent attack on a minister in parliament.
  • • Plans for these safety measures existed before but were accelerated due to rising concerns.
  • • Municipal secretary Tomas Jakobsson acknowledged the need for such actions.

In response to recent incidents of physical attacks against politicians, Umeå municipality has taken proactive measures to enhance security for its local officials. The decision to install protective glass in the city council chamber comes after a notable event where tomatoes and onions were hurled at a minister during a parliamentary session last October. This attack has underscored rising concerns about the safety of public figures in Sweden.

The protective glass installation had been in the works prior to the incident, but the urgency of the matter led to an expedited implementation. Tomas Jakobsson, the municipal secretary, expressed the necessity of this action, stating, "It is clear that we do not ignore the societal developments that are occurring." The measures reflect an increased awareness of the threats faced by politicians and the need to ensure their safety while performing their duties in public governance.