FOI has reviewed 4,026 comments from 90 open threads from 2024 to 2026 on Facebook, X, TikTok and Flashback.
The comments express, among other things, opinions that LGBTQ people are allowed to exist, but not to be seen. Some mock and ridicule them, and sometimes use emojis - the most common are those expressing nausea and disgust. The most hostile comments were on X, which also had the fewest number of supportive comments.
We could see that hostile comments increased when something related to LGBTQI issues happened, for example when the Gender Identity Act came into effect, says Sara Brunnberg, head of unit at FOI.
The importance of support
The tone towards LGBTQ people online has worsened, according to RFSL. Around 2016, a shift became visible and since then the situation has accelerated.
Today, people can write things that no one even reacts to, which ten years ago would have been seen as very rude, says RFSL's union chairman Lovise Brade.
This can be explained, among other things, by a more polarized political climate, both in Sweden and globally, she believes - but also by increased visibility.
When more LGBTQI people dare to be more open and show who we are, it is not uncommon for hatred to become more visible.
The material also included positive comments. For example, more positive comments on a Facebook post could mean a greater likelihood that they would appear higher up in the comments section.
Lovise Brade and RFSL say that external support means a lot.
One of the most beloved groups in the Pride movement is RFSL's section for proud parents. They may not be part of the LGBTQI community themselves, but they still take an active stand, says Brade.
The Minister: "Dark picture"
FOI has also interviewed 20 people who have some form of public LGBTQI involvement. Hatred and hostility online made several of them feel unsafe in their offline lives. Some are considering leaving the platforms, or are not participating as actively.
It was heartening to see that the positive comments have an effect, but overall it is a dark picture that is being painted, says Minister for Equality Nina Larsson (L).
She sees hostility towards LGBTQI people as a problem for the entire society.
This is not isolated. When you look at international studies, you see that there are forces behind the movements. We need to know more about the current situation in order to find the right measures and face this.
