Sweden's unique approach to the COVID-19 pandemic has been drawing a great deal of scrutiny for weeks, including both admiration and criticism.

The Swedes, unlike most other nations, have eschewed the hardline approach that has led to mass economic shutdowns and skyrocketing unemployment. Restaurants, bars, public pools, libraries and most schools remain open. While the nation's "laissez-faire" approach has drawn rebuke from some quarters, it is also beginning to draw praise.

Officials at the World Health Organization (WHO), we pointed out April 30, stated that Sweden's approach "represents a model" to nations seeking to end the lockdowns that have caused widespread economic disruption and placed the global economy at risk.

In a sense, Sweden has become a coronavirus touchstone. Critics point out that Sweden's per capita COVID-19 death rate is higher than several of its Scandanivan neighbors—Finland, Denmark, and Norway. Proponents point out that Sweden's death rate is lower than many of its European neighbors—Belgium, France, the United Kingdom, Spain, and Italy—who initiated strict lockdowns. Proponents also point out that Sweden has "flattened the curve," noting that the nation of 10 million has not seen its hospitals overrun or experienced medical equipment shortages.