Statsbudgeten

Statsbudgeten, or the state budget, is Sweden's annual financial plan for the central government. It is prepared by the Government, coordinated by the Ministry of Finance, and submitted to the Riksdag for approval. The budget outlines the government's proposed expenditures for state agencies and programs and proposes the revenue measures needed to fund them in the coming fiscal year. The document typically consists of two main components: the general state budget, which sets appropriations for the operations of ministries and state agencies, and the tax and revenue measures that accompany the proposal to influence overall public finances.

The budget process is part of Sweden's framework for fiscal policy. After submission, the Riksdag's Finance Committee and the full assembly review, debate, and decide on the budget, potentially with amendments. The budget is binding for the government during the financial year and is monitored by Parliament and the National Audit Office.

The statsbudgeten is distinct from regional and municipal budgets, which are managed by their respective authorities. It reflects economic policy priorities such as welfare services, infrastructure, defense, and environmental initiatives, and it interacts with long-term fiscal targets, such as debt stabilization and budget balance, as defined in Sweden's fiscal framework.

Historically, the budget has been a central instrument of democratic control over public finances, providing transparency about the government's revenue plans and spending commitments.