Nordic Nations Demand Accountability from Tech Giants Over Gang Recruitment Ads

Sweden and Denmark are set to summon tech companies to address the recruitment of young Swedes for violent crimes via online ads. The issue of gang violence in Sweden threatens to spill into neighboring countries, prompting intensified regional cooperation and calls for stricter platform regulations.

Sweden and Denmark will summon tech companies to address the escalating issue of gangs using online ads to recruit young Swedes for violent crimes, the justice ministers of both countries announced on Wednesday.

Sweden's decade-long struggle with gang violence is posing a growing threat to neighboring Nordic countries. Since April, Swedish gang members have been increasingly enlisted by Danish gangs, often through ads on platforms like Telegram. Swedish Minister of Justice Gunnar Strommer emphasized the importance of holding these platforms accountable for their role in facilitating such activities.

Danish Minister of Justice Peter Hummelgaard advocated for stronger measures, even considering geoblocking some platforms to curb criminal use. While TikTok and Telegram expressed willingness to cooperate, Meta and X remained silent on the matter. Sweden has the highest gun violence rate in the EU, prompting Nordic countries to bolster police cooperation and border controls.

(With inputs from agencies.)