Background & Purpose

Each year, the EU Commission publishes a report on how it applies key principles like subsidiarity and proportionality when creating laws, and how it works with national parliaments. This report helps ensure EU decisions are made at the right level and don't overstep their authority.

Proposals & Debate

The main focus was the EU Commission's 2022 report. The Swedish Parliament welcomed the Commission's efforts to improve law-making. However, they noted that only a few national parliaments formally challenge EU proposals based on the subsidiarity principle, while many use informal political discussions. The Riksdag found this imbalance worrying for democratic control.

The Decision

The Swedish Parliament decided to acknowledge its statement on the EU Commission's report and close the matter. This means no new laws or actions were approved by the Swedish Parliament based on this review.

Does this affect you?

  • Swedish Members of Parliament: Their collective opinion on EU law-making principles and the engagement of other national parliaments has been officially documented.
  • EU Commission: Receives formal feedback from the Swedish Parliament on its annual report and how it applies key principles.
  • Other EU National Parliaments: The Swedish Parliament's statement indirectly raises questions about their level of engagement in formal EU scrutiny mechanisms.

In Practice

  • Sweden's Parliament has officially recorded its views on how the EU makes laws.
  • No new Swedish laws or policies will be introduced as a direct result of this review.
  • The Riksdag has highlighted a concern about the varying engagement of other EU national parliaments in formally scrutinizing EU proposals.
  • The EU Commission will continue its annual reporting on these important principles.