ABSTRACT
In Sweden, there is a long tradition of constitutional protection of freedom of expression. The constitutional law regarding freedom of expression can be traced as far back as 1766. The Press Act and the Fundamental Law on Freedom of Expression stipulate special protection. Both the Press Act and the Fundamental Law on Freedom of Expression contain prohibitions against censorship. The agency for press, radio and TV, the Swedish Press and Broadcasting Authority, has investigated the development in media in Sweden. Within the area for the general protection of freedom of expression, there are several crimes in the Criminal Code that are related to and aim at protecting personal integrity. A feature of the special protection is the individual responsibility regarding the content of the publication, application, database or recording. In 1809, the right to access public documents became constitutionally protected so the right of citizens to have access to public documents has a long tradition in Swedish society.
