A Romanian-American couple, Daniel and Bianca Samson, are appealing custody of their two daughters, Sara and Tiana, who Swedish social services seized in December 2022 amid allegations of religious extremism.

The case has sparked international demonstrations, with protests planned or held in Brisbane, Stockholm, London, Copenhagen, and Washington.

Sweden said there was no evidence of abuse but kept the girls over concerns about religious practices, including weekly church attendance and media choices, which authorities labeled as religious extremism.

Romania’s government and senators are publicly advocating for the girls’ return, with a Senate declaration led by Titus Corlățean describing Sweden’s actions as harmful to diplomatic relations and international law.

Daniel Samson says officials branded the family as religious extremists to justify separation, citing seemingly minor behaviors such as nail painting, absence of a TV, and reading Bible stories as allegedly violent parenting.

The Samsons have spoken about the impact on their children, including reports that Sara and Tiana have attempted suicide multiple times while in state custody, and one daughter was placed in an adult psychiatric facility.