The European Commission's 2026 Rule of Law Report on Sweden, published on 22 July 2026, finds perceived judicial independence very high (82% of the public, 89% of companies) and notes progress on constitutional reforms to strengthen judicial independence, while recommending action on lay judge nominations, foreign bribery enforcement, and revolving-door rules.
The report is part of the Commission's annual rule of law cycle covering all EU member states. For Sweden, it highlights that constitutional amendments to reinforce judicial independence passed their first parliamentary vote in October 2025, with a second vote needed after the September 2026 elections and entry foreseen for 1 April 2027. No progress has been made on ensuring the independence of lay judge nominations; the Lay Judges' Association is exploring training from 2027, awareness-raising, and recruitment support. Courts received additional EUR 2.44 billion for 2026–2028 to address rising caseload and security. A new collective agreement from October 2025 between the National Courts Administration and the judges' union clarifies salary safeguards. The government has appointed a new all-party committee to examine enshrining the right to judicial review in the Constitution.
On anti-corruption, Sweden scores 80/100 in the 2025 Corruption Perception Index (3rd in the EU, 6th globally). However, 53% of citizens and 36% of companies see corruption as widespread. The 2024–2027 Action Plan continues, and the next strategic document is expected as a comprehensive anti-corruption strategy with indicators. The government proposed legislative reforms on 15 January 2026 to strengthen the criminal justice framework and accountability for corruption, but the draft bill does not expand the definition of foreign bribery or introduce corporate liability for bribery. New legislation strengthens political party financing rules and introduces a mandatory lobbying register. Implementation of the 2021 Whistleblowers Act continues, with private sector inspections carried out.
In media and civic space, the Swedish Agency for the Media is taking on more responsibilities. A new Public Service Act entered into force in December 2025, updating rules and funding until 2033. An amended framework for commercial radio is now applicable. Changes to public access laws have prompted transparency concerns. As of 1 January 2026, no leading European Court of Human Rights judgment is pending implementation (a decrease of one). Civic space remains open, but challenges persist in implementing the legal framework for civil society funding and operation. The National Human Rights Institution and the Parliamentary Ombudsman are effective.
Swedish citizens and companies benefit from high judicial independence and low corruption, but the lack of progress on lay judge independence and foreign bribery enforcement may undermine trust. The judiciary gains increased funding and salary safeguards, but faces rising caseloads. Anti-corruption authorities see strengthened party financing and lobbying rules, but the absence of corporate liability for bribery limits deterrence. Media and civil society organisations face transparency concerns due to changes in public access laws, though the new Public Service Act provides funding stability until 2033.
The Commission will monitor Sweden's implementation of the recommendations in the 2027 Rule of Law Report. The Council is expected to discuss the country-specific findings in the autumn of 2026, and the European Parliament may hold a debate on the report.