utredningen

Utredningen is the Swedish term for a formal, government-initiated inquiry into a policy area with the aim of examining issues, gathering evidence, and proposing reforms. It is a generic concept used across government and parliament, and the exact mandate, composition, and deliverables vary between assignments. In Sweden, many inquiries result in an official published report known as a Statens offentliga utredningar (SOU), which serves as the government’s consolidated record of the investigation and its recommendations.

A typical utredning is led by a chair and staffed by experts, public officials, and stakeholders. The terms of reference (uppdragets syfte och ramar) set the scope, deadlines, and procedures, including whether hearings, consultations, or public submissions are required. The process may involve data collection, expert testimony, consultations with ministries, agencies, employers’ and workers’ organizations, and other interest groups.

The work usually culminates in a final report that outlines findings and concrete recommendations. These recommendations may translate into legislative proposals, regulatory reforms, or changes in administrative practice. In some cases, interim reports or white papers are published during the course of the inquiry to inform stakeholders and solicit input.

Impact and role: utredningar influence policy development by providing analysis and options, and although the reports themselves are not binding, they often form the basis for government propositions to the Riksdag or for regulatory changes. The concept is central to public sector reform across areas such as welfare, education, labor, and environment.