A Swedish debate about the tale's moral nature has sparked every few years ever since SVT started broadcasting it annually, with critics arguing that it is too political and that stealing is not really on par with the traditional Christmas spirit and others defending it.
The annual broadcast of the tale by SVT has led to periodic debates about its moral implications, with some critics claiming it is overly politicized and that theft does not fit with the traditional Christmas values, whereas others argue in its favor based on similar concerns.