Sweden implements strict border control to stop Quran burning

RELIGIOUS NEWS AGENCY (REDNA) – Sweden is introducing strict border controls and identity checks to stop outsiders perceived to be potential threats, from entering the country.

The move, to be voted upon on Thursday, is in response to incidents when the Quran has been set on fire, stamped or torn, which has provoked angry responses in Muslim majority countries.

The Swedish embassy in Baghdad was set on fire in protest last month.

The government says the new measures are designed to prevent “people with very weak connections to Sweden” to come into the country to commit crimes or to act in conflict with Swedish security interests.

The Associated Press reports fears that the burning and desecration of the Quran has dented Sweden’s international reputation and may adversely affect its desire to join NATO.