budgetteregel

A budgetteregel, or budget rule, is a fiscal policy tool used by governments to control public spending and debt. These rules can take various forms, often setting limits on deficits, debt levels, or the growth of government expenditure. The primary objective of budget rules is to promote fiscal discipline and macroeconomic stability by discouraging excessive borrowing and ensuring long-term fiscal sustainability.

Different countries implement budget rules with varying specifications and enforcement mechanisms. Some rules are binding legal requirements, while others are more flexible guidelines. The effectiveness of a budget rule can depend on its design, its credibility, and the political and economic context in which it operates. Critics sometimes argue that rigid budget rules can hinder a government's ability to respond to economic downturns or invest in necessary public services. Proponents, however, emphasize their role in preventing debt crises and ensuring responsible fiscal management over time. Examples of common budget rule objectives include maintaining a balanced budget, capping the debt-to-GDP ratio, or limiting the annual increase in spending to a certain percentage.