A new report from Brå shows that criminals and extremist groups use methods such as harassment and threats to get municipal employees and politicians to change decisions, share classified information or avoid taking a position on political issues. Particularly vulnerable are individuals in the social services individual and family care as well as those who work with children and young people in vulnerable areas.
– Often it is subtle threats that are not illegal. It makes it difficult to deal with them purely, says Anna Horgby.
Brå wants to see extended support
For elected representatives, it is often about ideologically motivated impact attempts from extremist groups. Brås Report recommends that political parties work more actively to identify and manage these attempts, as well as support local elected representatives and party organizations.
– These are a few serious events, but this is a problem that must be taken seriously, says Anna Horgby.
Notifications of impact increases
The physical proximity at the municipal level makes it easier to create discomfort, which can lead to influence over the business. In Linköping, the municipality has worked actively to increase knowledge among the employees and urges the staff to report impact attempts.
– Three years ago we had a notification, now we have just over 400. This is due to an increased tendency to report but also on a changed social image, says Joakim Jäderstig, Deputy Security Manager in Linköping Municipality.
Handbook should strengthen the resilience
In order to support the preventive work, Brå has produced a handbook that contains concrete tools and strategies for preventing and managing impact attempts.
– The book contains tips and advice, but the most important thing is to raise the question and dare to talk about it, says Lisa Pedersen, investigator at Brå.