Eskilstuna Municipality has experienced a significant population decline over the past three years, losing over 1,000 residents according to recent reports. This trend contradicts earlier projections from around 2020 that anticipated the municipality would have over 113,000 residents by 2026, while current figures show approximately 106,000 inhabitants.
Municipal Councilor Jari Puustinen (M), who has been in power during this period alongside Social Democratic colleagues, acknowledged the downward trend but emphasized ongoing efforts to address the situation. "We have a great responsibility to increase the attraction around Eskilstuna. We also take responsibility and work hard to increase the number of establishments to create more jobs," Puustinen stated.
We have a great responsibility to increase the attraction around Eskilstuna. We also take responsibility and work hard to increase the number of establishments to create more jobs,
Political leaders point to multiple factors contributing to the population decrease, including tightened migration policies and emissions debates surrounding the Senior Material factory. Opposition Councilor Kim Fredriksson (SD) offered a different perspective, suggesting that population decline might not be entirely negative in the short term.
The population data shows a consistent gap between projections and actual outcomes since 2020, with the municipality falling increasingly behind its expected growth targets each year.