inrikespolitik

Inrikespolitik, or domestic policy, refers to the set of political processes and decisions aimed at governing a country within its borders. It encompasses the formulation, implementation, and evaluation of policies across areas such as the economy, welfare, healthcare, education, taxation, housing, environment, immigration, law and order, energy, transport, culture, and regional development. It is typically distinguished from utrikespolitik (foreign policy), which concerns a country’s relations with other states and international organizations.

Policy-making inrikespolitik typically occurs through elected representatives and the government, often within a parliamentary system. The legislative branch drafts and passes laws, approves budgets, and holds the executive to account. The executive, led by a prime minister or president and a cabinet, administers policy through ministries and public agencies. Local and regional governments may implement national policies and provide public services. Political parties, interest groups, unions, businesses, and think tanks influence agenda-setting and policy debates, and citizens participate through elections and public discourse.

Common instruments include legislation, regulation, taxation and spending, subsidies, and the provision of public services. Policy areas frequently addressed inrikespolitik include economic policy (stabilization, growth, employment), social policy (pensions, health care, education), labor markets and welfare, housing, immigration and integration, climate and energy policy, justice and internal security, and infrastructure.

The domestic policy environment is shaped by the political climate, public opinion, and international factors such as EU or regional frameworks, global markets, and cross-border cooperation. Evaluation relies on policy outcomes, statistical indicators, and democratic accountability through elections and parliamentary scrutiny.