The Jewish International Film Festival in Malmö, Sweden, set to celebrate 250 years of Jewish life in the country, has been postponed indefinitely after every cinema in the city refused to screen its films, citing safety and security concerns. The festival, which was scheduled to run from November 29 through December 2, 2025, has become the latest flashpoint in a national debate over anti-Semitism, cultural freedom, and public safety.
Sofia Nerbrand, one of the principal organizers, broke the news on X (formerly Twitter) on October 16, 2025, writing, "No cinema dares to rent out its premises" for the event. Folkets Hus, a venue that initially agreed to host, withdrew its offer due to security reasons, joining a growing list of commercial and arthouse cinemas that have turned down the festival. "It is outrageous if Sweden cannot protect cinema-goers who are interested in Jewish film. … We can’t have it like this," Nerbrand posted, expressing both frustration and determination to find a solution.
The festival, founded just last year, was designed not only to showcase Jewish-themed films from around the globe but also to mark a significant milestone: 250 years of Jewish life in Sweden. Funding for the event totaled 160,000 kronor (approximately £12,600) from the city of Malmö and an additional 50,000 kronor (£3,900) from a regional cultural administration, according to Swedish broadcaster SVT. But despite this support, organizers found themselves "stonewalled by all commercial and arthouse cinemas in the city," as they noted in a statement. Before seeking new venues, the team has decided to "pause to gather strength," while supporters continue to reach out with encouragement and ideas.
Ola Tedin, another organizer, told SVT, "A couple of [cinemas] refer to security concerns. They are worried that something might happen. I don’t understand what security threat there could be with showing Jewish films." The sense of disbelief and disappointment was echoed by many in the community, as the prospect of hosting a Jewish film festival in Malmö—Sweden's third-largest city—now seems out of reach, at least for the time being.
The festival’s challenges are emblematic of broader anxieties in Swedish society. Organizers and supporters have pointed to the growing threat of anti-Semitism as a factor behind the reluctance of venues to participate. "At the same time, more people must realize that violent anti-Semites are a serious societal problem, because they spread fear, silence, and appeasement," Nerbrand wrote. "It’s not just about Jews, but about Sweden." The issue, she argued, transcends the Jewish community and touches on the nation's ability to protect cultural events and the people who attend them.
Sweden's largest cinema chain, Filmstaden, released a statement on October 18, 2025, explaining its position. "Our priority is always to ensure a safe and positive experience for both our guests and employees," the company said, adding that the decision not to host the festival was made after a thorough assessment in the spring. Other venues, such as the theater Folkets Hus, also cited security grounds for their withdrawal. However, the arthouse cinema Panora denied that safety was the reason for its refusal, telling Swedish radio channel P4 Malmöhus that it simply lacked availability, and pointed out that it had hosted several other events centered on Jewish culture over the past year.
Despite the setbacks, the organizers have not given up hope. Nerbrand made clear her determination: "We MUST arrange the Jewish film festival in Malmö. It must be possible to find a venue. Many engaged people have reached out during the day with everything from cheers to concrete suggestions. That still gives hope." The organizers also shared that police had offered to stand guard outside the venue throughout the festival, should it go ahead—a gesture that underscores the seriousness of the security concerns but also the willingness of authorities to help ensure safety.
The postponement has triggered strong reactions from Swedish officials and politicians. Sweden's culture minister, Parisa Liljestrand, described the situation as a "disaster" for society. "That one of our national minorities feels so vulnerable, and that organizers believe they cannot arrange events and cultural activities with Jewish content, is an absolute disaster for society," she said on October 18, 2025. Simona Mohamsson, leader of the Liberal Party, went further, warning that anti-Semitism is "becoming normalized in Malmö." She stated, "If we are serious about Jews feeling safe in Sweden, we must put an end to the culture where vulnerable people are expected to step aside for their attackers. Those who praise terrorism and persecute Jews have no place in our country."
The Swedish government has taken steps to address these concerns. In May 2025, it adopted a 10-year national strategy to combat anti-Semitism and strengthen Jewish life across the country. Social affairs minister Jakob Forssmed articulated the aspirations behind the initiative: "It should be entirely normal for Jews in Sweden to wear a Star of David or a kippah openly, with joy and pride. Unfortunately, this is not always the case." The government’s strategy aims to create an environment where cultural and religious expression is not only tolerated but celebrated.
For now, the organizers of the Jewish International Film Festival are regrouping, buoyed by messages of support from across Sweden and beyond. The festival’s postponement has become a symbol of the challenges faced by minority communities seeking to celebrate their heritage in the face of fear and intimidation. Yet, it has also sparked a larger conversation about what kind of society Sweden wants to be—a place where cultural events can proceed safely, or one where threats and prejudice dictate what is possible.
As Australia prepares to host its own Jewish International Film Festival beginning October 30, 2025, the contrast with Malmö is striking. The Swedish organizers remain hopeful that, with renewed determination and public support, they will eventually find a venue willing to host their event. Until then, the postponement serves as a sobering reminder of the work that remains to be done to ensure that all Swedes, regardless of background, can participate fully and safely in the country’s cultural life.
