The last few days have seen a hostile Swedish debate on same-sex marriage. A Christian group has advertised against gay families being recognized by the state, which in turn has provoked Sweden's largest gay-rights group to protest. The debate about the homophobic advertisement has turned ugly, and few seem able to focus on the issue itself. Conservative Christians feel they are badly portrayed in the media while gay people feel their families are being unjustifiably attacked. In short, no one is happy and everyone is hurt.

Later today, the Moderate Party conference will decide whether or not to support a reformed marriage law that will allow for same-sex couples to marry.