Ah, the Swedes. So insistent about little things - like freedom, privacy, civil liberties. So committed to ensuring that their civil liberties remain intact. Granted, Sweden is a lot smaller than the U.S. Still, the fact that a majority of Swedish citizens understand the threat posed by unwarranted eavesdropping/snooping and will take action about it is encouraging. We have a role model:
STOCKHOLM, Sweden — Swedes have bombarded lawmakers with more than 1 million e- mails protesting the country's new eavesdropping law, adding to the growing public outcry over the measure, an official said Monday.
The contentious bill allows officials to eavesdrop on all cross-border e-mail and telephone traffic. The government plans to implement it in January.
The bill was passed June 18 in a 142-138 vote despite nationwide protests that are still continuing.
Critics say the law will encroach on privacy and jeopardize civil liberties...
[SNIP]
(emphasis mine)
And to this last part, I say hoo-ray and encourage the Swedes to keep up the pressure on their leaders. Perhaps we in the U.S. will take it as a sign of life in the world against the politics of fear:
The lack of support for the legislation is a setback for Sweden's center-right government, which has seen its popularity decline in recent months.
Happy 4th of July America. Go set off some fireworks, or watch some. Enjoy your freedom. And chow down!
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