länsstyrelser

Länsstyrelser, or County Administrative Boards, are the Swedish central government’s regional authorities in each of Sweden’s counties. They act as the government’s representative at the county level and are responsible for implementing national policies and decisions in collaboration with regional actors. The boards coordinate with municipalities, county councils, and national agencies to ensure consistent administration and development within their counties.

Each länsstyrelse is led by a governor (landshövding) appointed by the government. The governor heads the board and oversees its work, which is carried out by civil servants and specialists within the county. The offices are distributed across the 21 counties, aligning national priorities with local conditions.

The principal tasks of the länsstyrelser include promoting sustainable development, environmental protection, and nature conservation; supervising and supporting municipal administration; handling matters related to land use, planning, and regional development; and contributing to civil protection, emergency preparedness, and crisis management. They also work with agricultural, forestry, and fisheries issues, cultural heritage preservation, and consumer protection. In certain areas, the boards monitor compliance with laws and guidelines, issue guidance, and administer government grants or permits where delegated to the county level.

Historically, länsstyrelser have existed since the 17th century as part of the central government’s governance structure, evolving into the modern regional agencies used to implement national policy across Sweden. They operate under the framework of Swedish law and report to the government, serving as an essential link between national authorities and local communities.