Pirate Party Grows In Sweden

Inspired by Pirate Bay, the Pirate Party has become Sweden's third-largest political party, and set to win several seats in the European Parliament.

The Pirate Party is almost certainly the first political party inspired by a file-sharing site–in this case the controversial Pirate Bay. It’s become quite a political force in Sweden, racking up 8% support in the polls, according to the Times. That makes it the country’s third-largest political party, and suggest it will win a number of seats in the upcoming elections for the European parliament.

Party leader Rick Falk Vinge has said:

“Our politicians are digital illiterates. We need politicians that will not let themselves be bullied by foreign powers. To vote in the EU elections is more important than ever before.”

The party was founded three years ago, intent on increasing privacy rights as well as changing copyright laws. Its membership has soared since the arrest and trial of the men behind Pirate Bay.