Likvärdig

Likvärdig is a Swedish adjective meaning equal in value, quality, or worth. It is commonly used to describe conditions or treatment that are comparable and not disadvantaged or favored relative to others. In public administration, the term often appears in phrases such as likvärdig behandling and likvärdiga villkor, emphasizing that all parties or participants should be treated in a non-discriminatory and fair manner.

Etymology and form: likvärdig combines lik- (like, similar) with värdig (worthy). The word is an adjective that can modify singular or plural nouns and changes form to agree in gender and number, for example en likvärdig lösning and flera likvärdiga lösningar. It is frequently paired with nouns like behandling, villkor, eller konkurrensförutsättningar.

Usage and nuance: likvärdig indicates not just similarity, but equivalence in value or merit. It is closely related to concepts such as jämförbar (comparable) and lika villkor (equal conditions). While it conveys similarity, it also implies a standard of fairness or parity, particularly in evaluating bids, opportunities, or access to services.

Contexts: The term is prevalent in legal, administrative, educational, and procurement contexts in Sweden. For example, a procurement process aims to ensure likvärdiga villkor for all bidders, while educational policy may strive for likvärdig behandling of students regardless of background.

See also: jämförbar, lika behandling, lika villkor, rättvisa.