Sweden initially announced its intention to join the convention in October last year, with several ministers expressing their support. The government has now confirmed it will move forward with these plans.

By doing so, Sweden becomes the 13th European Union country to ratify the Macolin Convention. Countries that have already ratified include Belgium, France, Greece, Iceland, Italy, Lithuania, Norway, Portugal, Moldova, Spain, Switzerland, and Ukraine. Additionally, the convention has been signed by 39 other European states and three non-EU countries: Australia, Morocco, and Russia.

The convention stands as the only international legal framework dedicated to combating match-fixing and sports manipulation. It provides a structure for public authorities to work alongside sports governing bodies, betting operators, and competition organizers to prevent, identify, and address match-fixing through effective sanctions.

Sweden Strengthens Efforts to Tackle Match-Fixing

Social Affairs Minister Jakob Forssmed, who supported Sweden’s decision to join last year, stated that the country’s involvement will aid in combating match-fixing and enhancing sporting integrity.

Jakob Forssmed, the social affairs Minister, mentioned:

Match-fixing is a serious and increasing threat in sports and is happening more often across national borders. By now joining the Macolin Convention, Sweden gets full access to deepened international cooperation and information exchange.

This is a long-awaited and important step to counter match-fixing and strengthen integrity in sports.

Niklas Wykman, the financial market minister, added:

There must be order in the Swedish gambling market. The decision means that we can continue to suppress crime and create security for those who play.