Background & Purpose

For some time, Sweden has been working to spread government agencies across the country, not just in Stockholm, to boost regional development. This decision follows a review by the Swedish National Audit Office to see if these relocations have been effective and beneficial.

Proposals & Debate

The government presented a report based on the Swedish National Audit Office's review, which found that relocating agencies outside Stockholm had a small but positive impact on regional development and did not hurt their long-term effectiveness. The government agreed with these findings and proposed to continue its current strategy of spreading state presence across the country. Opposition parties had put forward proposals (motions) that aimed for different or more specific actions regarding these relocations.

The Decision

After a vote, the Swedish Parliament supported the government's current strategy for relocating agencies, deciding to accept the report and reject all opposition proposals. This means the government will continue its existing work to ensure state agencies are located effectively throughout Sweden.

Does this affect you?

  • Regional Areas Outside Stockholm: These areas will continue to benefit from the presence of government jobs and services, contributing to local economies and development.
  • Government Agency Employees: Their workplaces will remain in their current locations outside Stockholm, with the government ensuring effective operations.
  • Swedish National Audit Office: Their report and findings on agency relocation have been acknowledged and used as a basis for the government's continued work.

In Practice

  • Government agencies will continue to be located in various parts of Sweden, not solely in Stockholm.
  • The government will keep monitoring how effective these agencies are, regardless of their geographical location.
  • No new specific laws or rules regarding the relocation of government agencies were introduced.
  • The goal of boosting regional development through the placement of government jobs and services remains an ongoing effort.
  • The Swedish National Audit Office's assessment that relocations had a small positive regional impact is acknowledged.