Moderata Samlingspartiet Logo

Moderata Samlingspartiet, the Moderate Party of Sweden, traces its origins to the early 20th century. Founded in 1904 as Allmänna valmansförbundet (General Electoral League), it emerged as a conservative force, advocating for preserving the monarchy and traditional values. Initially, the party represented the interests of the aristocracy, large landowners, and industrialists, opposing the expansion of voting rights and social reforms. This stance often placed it in opposition to the growing labor movement and Social Democrats.

In 1938, the organization rebranded as Högerns Riksorganisation (National Organization of the Right), reflecting its position on the far right of Swedish politics. During this period, it began to adapt to changing social conditions, acknowledging the need for certain reforms. The name changed again in 1952 to Högerpartiet (The Right Party) as it started reevaluating its positions, moving towards a more modern form of conservatism.

A pivotal moment came in 1969 when the party adopted its current name, symbolizing a significant ideological shift. Under Gösta Bohman’s leadership, the organization transitioned from traditional conservatism to more liberal economic positions, advocating for free markets and entrepreneurship.

The 1970s and 1980s were transformative years. From 1976 to 1982, the group participated in coalition governments, gaining valuable experience shaping national policy. This period allowed the party to adapt its platform to the realities of governance.

A landmark event was the 1991-1994 period when Carl Bildt became the first Moderate Prime Minister. His government implemented liberal economic reforms, including privatizing state-owned enterprises and deregulating various sectors. These reforms, while controversial, laid the groundwork for the party’s economic policies in the following decades.

A new chapter began with Fredrik Reinfeldt’s leadership in 2003. He revitalized the organization, shifting it closer to the center of the political spectrum. Reinfeldt formed the center-right “Alliance” with other non-socialist parties, leading to the group’s return to power in 2006.

Under Reinfeldt’s premiership, 2006 to 2014 was among the most successful in the party’s history. The Moderate-led government enacted reforms to reduce taxes, liberalize the labor market, and reform the welfare system. This policy approach, known as the “New Moderates,” helped expand the party’s electoral base, securing consecutive election victories.

After the 2014 election defeat, the organization entered a phase of reassessment. Under the leadership of Anna Kinberg Batra and later Ulf Kristersson, the group sought to balance their traditional positions with responses to new challenges like immigration and the rise of populism.

In 2022, the group returned to power, forming a minority government in coalition with the Christian Democrats and Liberals, supported by the Sweden Democrats. Ulf Kristersson became Prime Minister, marking a new chapter in the party’s history.