Rape

 For quite a long time now, the number of rapes in Sweden has been increasing. These are most often so-called stranger rapes.

This is statistically established, although the way we measure it in Sweden may differ from the methods used in other countries. In Sweden, each instance of rape is recorded as a separate case. For example:

if a man in a relationship rapes his partner five times over the course of a month, this would be counted as one rape in other countries, but as five in Sweden.

Rape, assault, violence—regardless of the form, it is reprehensible and serious; but what we have seen recently is truly terrifying.

For a year now, reports of rapes and sexual molestation involving our elderly have been pouring in. They continue to live in their own homes but receive assistance with cleaning, cooking, laundry, personal hygiene, and more from the healthcare sector—so-called home care services.

Right then and there, these elderly women were victimised. Women aged between 80 and 95.

Quite frankly, it’s absolutely appalling.

It has been established that, in most cases, it is men from the Middle East who carry out these acts.

Yesterday, I read in the newspaper about yet another horrific rape—this time involving a woman who was dying at a hospice (a facility for end-of-life care), where she was raped in her bed. The man was caught in the act and fled the scene; he subsequently crashed his car and was admitted to the very same hospital.

The woman died from her illness a few hours later.

But what can one say? It is so truly awful that I cannot find the words. How could someone—like this man—do such a thing? What should the punishment be? How do we protect our elderly and the sick? Why did things turn out this way? I am left speechless.