remissomgång

Remissomgång is a Swedish term that translates to "referral round" or "consultation round." It is a formal process used in various Swedish institutions, particularly in government and public administration, to gather feedback and opinions on proposed legislation, policy documents, or important decisions before they are finalized.

The core of a remissomgång involves sending a document, often a government bill or a report from a state agency, to relevant stakeholders for their input. These stakeholders can include other government agencies, municipalities, county councils, non-governmental organizations, industry associations, trade unions, academic institutions, and sometimes even the general public. The goal is to ensure that a wide range of perspectives are considered, potential issues are identified, and the final decision is well-informed and broadly supported.

Organizations and individuals receiving a remiss are given a specific deadline to submit their written comments, known as a "remissvar" (referral response). These responses are then compiled and analyzed by the authority responsible for the proposal. The feedback received during the remissomgång can lead to significant changes in the original proposal, or it can confirm that the proposed course of action is appropriate. This process is a fundamental part of Swedish democratic governance, emphasizing transparency and broad participation in policy-making.