värdegrund

Värdegrund is a Swedish term describing the fundamental values that guide an organization’s behavior and decisions. Although not a fixed legal term, it functions as a framework for how staff, pupils, or residents should treat one another and how policies are developed and applied. Common elements include human dignity, equality, respect for differences, safety, accountability, democracy, and non-discrimination. A värdegrund is typically intended to foster trust, a lawful and inclusive climate, and high professional or civic standards.

In practice, värdegrund is often expressed in a written statement or code of conduct that aligns strategy, management, and daily operations with these values. It influences recruitment, onboarding, training, performance assessment, and how complaints or conflicts are handled. In schools, it guides how pupils, teachers, and families interact; in municipalities and public services, it shapes customer service, internal processes, and service delivery.

Implementation may involve training, ongoing discussions, leadership exemplification, and regular evaluation of whether actions reflect the stated values. It is intended to be lived rather than merely declared, yet it can be criticized as vague or easy to circumscribe through slogans. Critics argue that värdegrund risks becoming a bureaucratic label if not anchored in concrete practices, and that it can conflict with freedom of expression or professional autonomy if interpreted too rigidly. Proponents see it as a necessary baseline for respect and equal treatment in diverse organizations, helping align culture, policies, and daily conduct. See also concepts such as organizational culture, ethics, and code of conduct.