The Swedish Constitution
The Swedish Constitution comprises the fundamental rules governing Sweden's organisation as a state.
The Constitution contains provisions defining the relation between the legislative and the executive powers, and the rights and freedoms enjoyed by citizens.
It is more difficult to amend the Constitution than to amend other laws. The Constitution can only be amended or abrogated by the Riksdag passing identically worded resolutions to this effect on two different occasions, separated by a general election. No other laws or ordinances are permitted to come into conflict with the Constitution.
The Swedish Constitution consists of four fundamental laws:
- the Instrument of Government,
- the Act of Succession,
- the Freedom of the Press Act, and
- the Fundamental Law on Freedom of Expression.
The Riksdag Act occupies a unique intermediate position between the Constitution and ordinary laws. The Riksdag Act lays down detailed provisions on the Riksdag and its procedures.
The Working Committee on Constitutional Reform presented its final report on 17 December 2008.
