Programförklaring

Programförklaring is a formal document that outlines the policy program and legislative agenda of a political group or government for a defined period. It typically describes priorities, proposed laws, and budgetary aims, and serves as a basis for governing and public accountability.

In Sweden, the term is commonly used in the context of government formation. After an election or coalition negotiations, a new government may present a programförklaring to the Riksdag (the parliament) and to the public. The document usually covers priorities across policy areas such as economy, welfare, education, healthcare, climate, justice, and foreign policy, and often includes concrete proposals, target dates, and resource allocations. It can also outline reform strategies and governing principles.

The process often involves negotiations among coalition partners to reach a common program, which is then approved by the involved parties and publicly announced. The programförklaring functions as the government’s platform and is intended to guide future legislative work and the annual budget. In some cases it may be revised or supplemented during a term.

Relation to other concepts: a programförklaring is related to a political platform or coalition agreement, though its exact meaning and usage can vary by country. It is distinct from an election manifesto, which is the campaign program, whereas the programförklaring describes governing intentions and how they will be implemented.