Folkhälsoråd

Folkhälsoråd are cross‑sector advisory bodies established at municipal or regional level in Sweden to support and coordinate public health work. They are intended to help translate national public health goals into local action and to address the social determinants of health within a specific locality.

Composition and function vary by municipality, but folkhälsoråd are commonly made up of elected representatives from the municipal or county council, as well as professionals and stakeholders from health care, social services, education, housing, sports, civil society and local businesses. The councils typically function as advisory bodies to local authorities, rather than as decision‑making authorities, and they meet regularly to discuss health trends, priorities and planned actions.

Responsibilities often include developing or guiding municipal public health plans, monitoring health indicators, and proposing cross‑sector measures to improve population health and reduce health inequities. They may coordinate campaigns and initiatives related to physical activity, nutrition, tobacco and alcohol prevention, mental health, child and adolescent health, aging, environmental health, and safety. Communication with residents and collaboration with local organizations are common tasks to ensure broad participation and buy‑in.

Relation to national policy is through Sweden’s public health framework, with the Public Health Agency (Folkhälsomyndigheten) setting overarching goals and providing data and guidance. Local folkhälsoråd implement and adapt these goals to their context, within applicable laws and budgets. The form and influence of folkhälsoråd differ between municipalities, reflecting local needs and resources. See also: public health in Sweden, Folkhälsomyndigheten, health equity, municipal governance.