Nude bathing is a divisive issue in Sweden during the summer and although it is not prohibited, it can lead to criminal offenses.
But being dressed at a nude beach can also stir up emotions.
Bathing nude in public is protected by some, while others find nudity unpleasant. It's how others perceive nudity that can make nude bathing criminal, says Thomas Fuxborg, press spokesperson for the police region in western Sweden.
It has to do with whether someone feels offended, it's only then that it becomes a crime. It (bathing nude) is not prohibited, unless local ordinances are put in place, which each municipality has, he says.
The debate flares up in the summer – including in Norrköping, where a man bathed nude among dressed families with children, reports Norrköpings Tidningar.
Municipalities can regulate nude bathing
Some municipalities have chosen to have designated nude beaches in clearly defined areas, which are usually called "official nude beaches". There, it becomes difficult to claim that nudity is offensive, says Thomas Fuxborg.
If you're going to be there, you might have to expect to see naked people or be naked yourself to fit in with the area.
Niclas Ember, chairman of the Swedish Naturist Association, emphasizes that the same rules apply at a nude beach as at other bathing spots.
On a nude beach, you should be able to bring both children and your mother-in-law, and both should feel safe. Then it's just common sense and a bit of courtesy that applies, and you'll get far, he says.
There are also bathing spots that are called "unofficial nude beaches" that have come about through tradition. Niclas Ember believes that there, you have to accept that people are naked.
To avoid conflicts, he thinks that more municipalities should arrange "official nude beaches".
People will bathe nude regardless of whether there are beaches for it or not.
Clothes at nude beaches?
At nude beaches, swimwear can also cause discussion. Earlier this summer in Gothenburg, a teenage girl was scolded for wearing a bikini at the nude beach Saltholmens kallbadhus, reports Göteborgs-Posten.
Not being nude can be perceived as unpleasant. For example, Thomas Fuxborg mentions if you were to sit fully dressed at a nude beach.
Then, those who are nude may feel like you're staring at them and they feel offended by it.
Niclas Ember believes that being nude is about showing respect. At the same time, he thinks you should have understanding for those who need to get used to being nude, as long as they are in the same company as nude people.
We've all been beginners once and we all know it's not easy to undress for the first time.
The Swedish Naturist Association has listed etiquette rules for a good experience at the nude beach on its website. Here are some of the advice:
Be nude. If you're not nude, it may be perceived as if you just came to peek.
Show respect for others. Respect other people's integrity, it's impolite to stare. It's also impolite to take up someone else's time before you've been welcomed and invited to conversation or company.
Always bring a towel to sit on.
At public nude beaches, you should always ask before taking pictures. Sneaking photos is prohibited and will be reported to the police.
Sexual activities are not acceptable at nude beaches, just like they're not allowed at other public places.
Source: The Swedish Naturist Association
