Folktinget

Folktinget, officially the National Minority Parliament of Sweden, is a representative body for recognized national minorities and their languages in Sweden. It was established in 1993 to promote and safeguard the rights and interests of these communities. The organization recognizes five national minority groups: Sami, Finnish, Meänkieli-speaking Tornedalians, Romani, and Jews. It functions as a forum where minority concerns can be raised and transmitted to government and public authorities.

Folktinget's main tasks include advising the government on minority policy and legislation, monitoring the implementation of minority rights, and promoting the use of minority languages. It organizes information campaigns, coordinates with public authorities, and supports cultural and educational initiatives within minority communities.

The assembly is elected by delegates from the five minority groups and is supported by a board and a secretariat, based in Stockholm, that handles day-to-day work.

Folktinget operates within Sweden's national minority policy framework and receives funding through government offices as part of the country's obligations under international instruments such as the European Charter for Regional or Minority Languages.

It serves as a formal channel for minority voices and a reference point for policy discussions, though its influence depends on political implementation.