Myndighetsarkiv

Myndighetsarkiv is a term used in Sweden to describe the archives that preserve records created by public authorities. These archives cover central government agencies, regional administrations, municipal bodies, and related executive agencies. The purpose is long-term preservation, accountability, and enabling historical research and public transparency.

Typical contents include administrative files, correspondence, meeting minutes, regulatory decisions, registers, and policy documents. Records may exist in paper, digital formats, or other media, and are often accompanied by metadata and finding aids to help users locate material.

Public authorities oversee these archives within the framework of Swedish archival law and the principle of public access to information (offentlighetsprincipen). The Swedish National Archives (Riksarkivet) and local or regional archives coordinate preservation, set retention schedules, and provide guidance on handling and access.

Access is generally granted to the public after certain time periods, but some materials may be restricted for privacy or security reasons. Digital catalogs and portals enable search, while researchers can request copies or arrange visits to repositories.