Swedish Jewish Film Festival Canceled Amid Security Concerns

“It is outrageous that Sweden cannot protect Jewish film-goers,” the organizer said, adding that violent anti-Semites threaten not just Jews, but all of society.

By United with Israel Staff

A Jewish film festival in Malmö, Sweden, celebrating 250 years of Jewish life in the country was forced to cancel its screenings after multiple venues withdrew over security concerns.

Organizers were unable to secure a single location willing to host the event, scheduled for November 29 to December 2.

Sofia Nerbrand, one of the festival’s organizers, confirmed that Folkets Hus, a local cinema, pulled out at the last minute.

Other potential hosts, including major chain Filmstaden, also declined, reportedly due to fears of antisemitic attacks. “In this particular case, after thorough assessment, we concluded that we could not host the festival due to safety concerns,” Filmstaden said in a statement. “Our priority is always to ensure a safe and positive experience for both our guests and employees.”

In a post on X, Nerbrand expressed frustration that every commercial and art-house cinema in Malmö had refused to participate, writing that organizers had been “stonewalled” and highlighting the city’s significant Muslim migrant population.

“It is outrageous if Sweden cannot protect cinema-goers who are interested in Jewish film,” she wrote. “More people need to realize that violent anti-Semites are a serious societal problem, as they spread fear, silence and appeasement. It’s not just about Jews, but about Sweden.”

Festival co-organizer Ola Tedin told Swedish broadcaster SVT, “I don’t understand what security threat there could be with showing Jewish films.” The organizers added in a statement that they would “pause to gather strength” before attempting to secure a new venue, noting the “heartwarming” support they had received in recent days.

Sweden’s Minister for Culture, Parisa Liljestrand, condemned the cancellations as “an absolute catastrophe for Swedish society.” She said, “It is alarming that we have reached this point — that one of our national minorities feels so vulnerable and that organizers believe it is not possible to hold cultural events with Jewish content.”

The Jewish International Film Festival, founded last year, had planned this year’s program to mark the long and rich history of Jewish life in Sweden.

However, with theaters citing safety risks amid rising antisemitism, the event has been postponed, leaving the community and supporters hoping that Swedish society will step up to protect and celebrate Jewish culture.