In recent years, Sweden has experienced an alarming growth in violent crime. Long considered a bastion of liberal democracy, the Scandinavian country now faces increasing pressure to bring violent criminals to justice -- but there's just one catch: witnesses are too scared to testify against the perpetrators. In light of witness' fear of retribution, Sweden is now considering introducing the concept of "anonyma vittnen," or "anonymous witnesses," which would allow witnesses to testify anonymously against an accused. As the implementation date for "anonyma vittnen" approaches, Volume XLVII staffer Ceilidh Meagher argues that although well-meaning, the concept of anonymous witnesses neglects Swedish constitutional considerations inherent in a fair criminal procedural process. Whether the program is successful is yet to be seen, but the program is already stirring controversy in the Swedish legal community.
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