Centerhöger

Centerhöger, or center-right, is a political designation used in Swedish and broader European discourse to describe a family of parties and movements that occupy a position between the political center and the right. It is typically associated with a pragmatic blend of market-oriented economic policy, fiscal responsibility, and gradual reform, combined with a willingness to address social issues within the framework of a stable welfare state.

Core policy elements commonly linked to center-right politics include support for a market-based economy, tax reform or reductions, deregulation, privatization of some public services, and encouragement of private enterprise. Welfare policies are often designed to be financially sustainable, with emphasis on efficiency and targeted support rather than extensive expansion. On social and cultural issues, center-right platforms can range from traditionalist to more liberal, depending on national context; foreign policy tends to stress law and order, national sovereignty, and, in many cases, cautious multilateral engagement.

Because the center-right is a broad coalition rather than a single doctrine, its practices vary by country. In Sweden, for example, center-right forces have included parties such as Moderaterna, Kristdemokraterna, Liberalerna, and Centerpartiet, notably during the Alliansen coalition (2004–2014). In other European countries, center-right groupings may be composed of liberal-conservative, Christian democratic, or liberal parties that compete with both left-wing and right-wing currents.

Critics contend that center-right politics can overemphasize market solutions at the expense of public services or social equality, while supporters argue that such policies promote growth and ensure the long-term viability of welfare systems.

See also: center-right, liberalism, conservatism, Christian democracy.