Separation of Family Due to Religious Views in Sweden
In the U.S., going to church is generally seen as a personal choice—people either participate or they don’t. However, in Sweden, a couple faced a serious situation where they were separated from their family for four years, with “religious extremism” cited as the reason. The mother attended church three times a week and barred her daughters from wearing makeup.
As of 2022, Daniel and Bianca Samson lost custody of their two eldest daughters. The European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) turned down their appeal after an allegation was made by their eldest daughter. According to reports, she claimed her parents restricted their ability to wear makeup and own cell phones, labeling it as “religious extremism.”
Interestingly, the eldest daughter has since taken back her accusations, but authorities have yet to find any evidence of abuse. Despite this, the sisters remain in separate foster homes, not allowed to reunite with their parents. They are dealing with health issues and can see their family only once a month under tight supervision.
The upcoming case at the European Court of Human Rights will allow the Samson family to argue their right to religious freedom has been violated. ADF noted that Swedish officials used the family’s regular church attendance as justification for their claims of extremism.
Guillermo A. Morales Sancho, General Counsel for ADF, expressed disappointment over the court’s decision to dismiss the case, highlighting that this family has endured separation for over three years. He mentioned that a thorough investigation showed Mr. and Mrs. Samson did not engage in any abusive behavior and that social services had deemed them fit to parent after completing necessary training.
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