rösträkning

Rösträkning, or vote counting, is the process by which votes cast in an election are tallied to determine the result. In Sweden, rösträkning is performed for national, regional, and municipal elections, and it forms the basis for seat allocation in the Riksdag as well as in county and municipal assemblies.

The counting typically begins after polls close. At polling stations, ballot boxes are opened, seals checked, and ballots are sorted and tallied by party lists or candidates on counting sheets. Valid ballots are counted, while clearly invalid ballots are separated and noted. The procedure emphasizes accuracy, traceability, and transparency, with local observers and party representatives often present during the counting.

Once local counts are completed, results are transmitted to the county administrative boards and then to the central election authority, Valmyndigheten. The aggregated results are checked, and the final distribution of seats is calculated using a formal apportionment method, such as the modified Sainte-Laguë method. After verification, the official election results are published.

Recounts may be triggered if results are disputed or if irregularities are detected, and they are governed by electoral laws. The rösträkning process is designed to ensure accuracy and public confidence through proper documentation, audit trails, and opportunities for oversight by political parties and other observers. Special ballots, such as advance or overseas votes, are processed according to specific rules and timelines within the overall counting framework.