We must be united in the fight against extremism

International issues In the midst of the sorrow, fear and anger, we must show that we are united in the fight against extremism in all its forms. We must organise to fight for democracy, peace and decent life for all people around the world. This is the message of a letter by the Head of the LO International department to union friends around the world.


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Dear Sisters and Brothers,

On Monday at noon we held a minute’s silence to mourn and remember the victims of the horrific terrorist attack on Stockholm last Friday. Four people have died and 15 are injured.

Many of you have walked down Drottninggatan on your way from meetings at LO Sweden, so you know how close to the scene of the attack we are. Thankfully, none of our colleagues were physically hurt.

The Swedish police, fire brigade, ambulance personnel, security guards, hospital workers and rescue teams have done an amazing job in the aftermath of the attack. We have also seen how the whole society – institutions and individuals – has come together in solidarity with the victims. We have helped each other, supported each other, opened up our homes, offered people rides home when trains and buses stopped. Our country has really shown its best side.

It is heartwarming also to feel the support from around the world. Sweden does not stand alone!

We are grateful for the condolences and expressions of solidarity from you.

You are with us. And we are with you. Paris, Brussels, Nairobi, Istanbul, Beirut, Nice, Berlin, London, Saint Petersburg, Alexandria...

In the midst of the sorrow, fear and anger, we must show that we are united in the fight against extremism in all its forms. We must organise to fight for democracy, peace and decent life for all people around the world!

In solidarity,

On behalf of the LO leadership and all of us at LO

Loa Brynjulfsdottir

Head of international department
LO – Swedish Trade Union Confederation