Social Democrats

Swedish Social Democratic leader Magdalena Andersson has given up her attempt to form a new government, leaving the country in political deadlock following September's parliamentary election. With no bloc holding a clear majority in the Riksdag, the task of forming a government is expected to pass to the conservative-led opposition, prolonging uncertainty over who will govern Sweden.

Magdalena Andersson, leader of Sweden's opposition Social Democrats and former prime minister, says she cannot form a government in the current political situation. The announcement rules her out of attempts to build a governing coalition amid a stalemate following the recent election, leaving Sweden's next government uncertain.

Magdalena Andersson, leader of Sweden's Social Democrats, has handed back the government mandate to the Speaker after the Left Party shifted position, ending her attempt to form a government. The move deepens Sweden's political deadlock following an election that left no bloc with a clear majority, and attention now turns to whether the Speaker will give Ulf Kristersson of the Moderates the next chance to form a government.

Commentary in international media is asking whether the foundations of German democracy are weakening. The question reflects growing concern over political instability, the rise of extremist parties and pressure on Germany's established political institutions. Observers are debating whether the country's postwar democratic order can withstand its current political and social strains.

Donald Trump has again spoken warmly about New York Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani, a progressive Democrat, in what Politico describes as the latest such display of cordiality between the two. The outlet argues the timing is awkward for Republicans, who have sought to portray Mamdani's brand of democratic socialism as a threat ahead of coming electoral contests.

The Progressive Alliance of Socialists and Democrats in the European Parliament has jointly organised a Trade Union Forum with the European Trade Union Confederation. The gathering brings together centre-left MEPs and union representatives to discuss workers' rights and labour priorities in EU policy. Little detail has been released so far about the agenda or outcomes of the event.

A writer from Green Bay, Wisconsin, who previously worked at Facebook, has released a new book examining the relationship between technology and democracy. Local outlet WBAY reported the publication, highlighting the author's hometown roots and insider experience at one of the world's largest social media companies. The book adds to a growing genre of firsthand accounts from former tech employees weighing in on how digital platforms affect democratic life.