Statistikmyndigheten

Statistikmyndigheten, officially known as the Swedish Statistical Central Bureau (SCB), is the national statistical institute of Sweden. Established in 1858, it is responsible for producing official statistics on a wide range of topics, including demographics, economy, society, and the environment. The agency operates under the authority of the Ministry of Finance and is tasked with providing reliable, independent, and high-quality statistical data to support evidence-based decision-making for policymakers, businesses, researchers, and the general public.

The primary functions of Statistikmyndigheten include conducting population censuses, surveys, and registrations to gather comprehensive data. It ensures that statistical methods are applied consistently and transparently, adhering to international standards such as those set by Eurostat and the United Nations Statistical Commission. The institute also plays a key role in promoting statistical literacy and public understanding of data through educational initiatives and accessible reporting.

Statistikmyndigheten’s data covers essential areas such as labor market statistics, GDP growth, inflation rates, education levels, healthcare outcomes, and environmental indicators. These statistics are crucial for monitoring societal trends, evaluating public policies, and informing economic forecasts. The agency collaborates with domestic and international organizations to enhance data quality and comparability across countries.

Headquartered in Örebro, Statistikmyndigheten employs around 1,000 staff members and operates with a mandate to remain politically neutral, ensuring that its statistical outputs reflect objective facts rather than subjective interpretations. The institute’s transparency and accountability are reinforced by its adherence to the Swedish Public Access to Information and Secrecy Act, allowing for public scrutiny of its methods and findings. Its work is integral to Sweden’s data-driven governance and contributes to the country’s reputation for statistical excellence.