Regeringsunderlag

Regeringsunderlag is a term used in Swedish politics to describe the policy program and political platform that underpins a government. It encompasses the set of priorities, commitments, and proposals a governing coalition or party coalition intends to implement during its term. The underlag may be negotiated among participating parties and their leaders and is often published as a coalition agreement or a formal platform. It covers areas such as the economy, the welfare state, education, immigration, climate and energy, law and order, and foreign policy, as well as fiscal frameworks and budget priorities.

The establishment of a regeringsunderlag typically occurs when a government is formed after an election or after a coalition agreement is renegotiated. It guides ministers in day-to-day decision-making and provides a reference for parliament when evaluating policy proposals. While the regeringsunderlag sets out long-term goals, it is not a legally binding document; however, it carries political weight and is used to justify government actions and to secure support in the Riksdag. The government may update or revise the underlag in response to changing circumstances, elections, or shifts in parliamentary support.

In practice, the term is closely related to the regeringsförklaring (the government declaration to the Riksdag) and to formal coalition agreements. Together, these instruments define the government's mandate and accountability framework.