Only one-third of the Swedes believe there are too many immigrants in the country – considerately fewer than before.

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The Swedes have adopted a more positive outlook towards immigration, a new study from Gothenburg’s University said Monday. Today some 36 percent think there are too many immigrants in the country, down from 56 percent in 1993.

"Never before have Swedish attitudes been so accepting as their are now," Professor Marie Demker wrote in an opinion article in the Dagens Nyheter newspaper.

Seventeen years ago 25 percent said they wouldn’t like an immigrant from another continent marrying into the family. This has now dropped to 12 percent.

The same day a poll showed that the far-right anti-immigration party, Sweden Democrats, have continued their slide in voter support. They have dropped from 5 percent to 2.9 percent and are now well below the threshold for parliamentary seats.

Woman, younger citizens and those living in urban areas are the least intolerant towards immigration, the study said.

Among the main parliamentary political parties, those backing the Moderates (conservatives) are most incredulous towards immigrants – while Green Party supporters are the most enthusiastic.