Säkerhetsskyddslagstiftning

Säkerhetsskyddslagstiftning refers to the set of Swedish laws that regulate security protection with the aim of safeguarding state, society and essential functions from espionage, sabotage and the improper disclosure of sensitive information. The central statute is Säkerhetsskyddslagen, enacted to establish a framework for how information and activities of national importance must be protected, including how risks are analyzed and mitigated.

Scope and objects: The legislation applies to public authorities, municipalities, and private entities that handle security-sensitive information or participate in operations deemed critical to national security. It introduces requirements for risk assessments, security classifications, and the development of security plans. The regime also covers personnel security, including background checks, access control, and handling of information, as well as physical security of facilities and secure storage and destruction of sensitive materials. When a private actor is involved in security-critical activities, a security protection agreement (säkerhetsskyddsavtal) may be mandated.

Obligations and measures: Entities subject to the law must implement protective measures corresponding to identified risks, maintain appropriate classification levels for information, and ensure proper training and procedures for staff. Incidents and breaches must be reported to the relevant authorities, and ongoing audits or reviews can be conducted to verify compliance.

Oversight and enforcement: Compliance is overseen by government authorities and national security bodies, with the authority to require measures, impose sanctions, or terminate contracts in cases of non-compliance. The legislation interacts with related legal frameworks governing secrecy, public access to information, and information security standards.

History and purpose: Adopted to strengthen protection of critical functions and security-relevant information, the law has been amended over time to adapt to evolving security threats and international cooperation needs.