The Swedish government has officially confirmed that the country will ratify the Council of Europe’s Convention on the Manipulation of Sports Competitions, commonly known as the Macolin Convention. This move marks a significant step in Sweden’s efforts to combat match-fixing and preserve the integrity of sports.
Sweden Joins Growing List of Countries Combatting Match-Fixing
Sweden’s decision to ratify the Macolin Convention has been in the works for nearly a year. In October 2023, the government first expressed its intent to sign, backed by several high-ranking ministers. This formal confirmation now makes Sweden the 13th European Union member state to ratify the agreement.
The list of countries already committed to the convention includes Belgium, France, Greece, Iceland, Italy, Lithuania, Norway, Portugal, Moldova, Spain, Switzerland, and Ukraine. In addition, 39 other European states have signed it, alongside non-European nations such as Australia, Morocco, and Russia.
As the only international legal framework targeting sports manipulation, the Macolin Convention outlines a clear strategy. It calls for public authorities to work collaboratively with sports governing bodies, betting operators, and event organisers to prevent, detect, and ultimately punish match-fixing.
Government Leaders Applaud the Move
Key Swedish officials have been vocal in their support for joining the treaty. Social Affairs Minister Jakob Forssmed, one of its most prominent advocates, described the decision as vital for the integrity of Swedish sports.
“Match-fixing is a serious and increasing threat in sports and is happening more often across national borders,” Forssmed said. “By now joining the Macolin Convention, Sweden gets full access to deepened international cooperation and information exchange.
“This is a long-awaited and important step to counter match-fixing and strengthen integrity in sports.”
Niklas Wykman, Sweden’s Financial Market Minister and another long-term supporter, echoed Forssmed’s sentiments. Wykman stressed that the move aligns with Sweden’s broader ambitions for order and fairness in its gambling market.
“There must be order in the Swedish gambling market,” Wykman stated. “The decision means that we can continue to suppress crime and create security for those who play.”
Why the Macolin Convention Matters
The Macolin Convention was negotiated and written in 2014, but it took five years to gain sufficient traction. By September 2019, six countries—Italy, Norway, Portugal, Moldova, Switzerland, and Ukraine—had ratified the treaty, enabling it to officially come into force.
At its core, the treaty defines and addresses “illegal sports betting” as any form of betting not permitted by the laws of the consumer’s jurisdiction. This definition has led to disputes within the European Union, particularly from Malta, where concerns over its impact on offshore gambling licensees have delayed the country’s involvement.
For context, Malta has long defended its operators’ ability to provide services across Europe under Article 37 of the Treaty of the Functioning of the European Union, which ensures the free movement of goods and services.
Malta’s Stance: Softening or Holding Firm?
Malta has been the most vocal opponent of the Macolin Convention due to the potential implications for its thriving gambling sector. Local lawmakers argue that the treaty’s broad definition of illegal betting could jeopardise businesses operating under Maltese licences, even if they serve consumers legally in other jurisdictions.
However, there are signs that Malta’s resistance might be softening. In 2023, Malta’s government engaged legal experts to assess the potential impact of ratifying the convention. Then, in March 2024, it made a significant move by publishing Legal Notices 39 and 40—steps that pave the way for a national anti-match-fixing platform.
This development suggests that Malta may be inching toward becoming a signatory, though no formal commitment has been made to date.
Sweden Takes a Leading Role in Europe
With Sweden’s formal ratification of the Macolin Convention, it strengthens its stance against match-fixing and illegal gambling. This move positions Sweden as a leader in upholding sporting integrity within Europe, encouraging other nations to follow suit.
In practical terms, Sweden’s participation means deeper international cooperation and stronger frameworks to identify and prevent match manipulation. It also sends a clear message: illegal betting and corruption in sport will not be tolerated.
Sweden joins an expanding coalition of nations committed to safeguarding fair competition, setting an example for others still deliberating their position on the treaty.
The path forward may not be without challenges, especially as discussions over definitions and jurisdictional nuances persist. Still, for Sweden, this decision represents a significant step toward a cleaner, safer sporting environment.
