Tech Election – Where the Parties Stand on Tech Issues

Techvalet is based on the public policies and positions of the parties in the Riksdag and focuses on the proposals that each party puts forward for the future. The assessment examines whether the parties present new reforms or proposals to change or develop current policies, not merely measures that have already been decided upon or are being implemented. “Yes” means that the party presents clear and concrete reform proposals in this area. “Limited” means that the party has policies in this area, but that the proposals are few, general in nature, or only partially address the issue. This assessment does not involve any evaluation of the proposals’ content, effects, or funding—a “Yes” therefore does not mean that TechSverige endorses the proposal.

AI and new technologies are transforming the labor market. At the same time, the path to employment for recent graduates has become more difficult, and the transition to their first skilled job has become longer. For Sweden to meet its workforce needs, more people must be able to enter the labor market and have the opportunity to develop the skills in demand in a changing workforce. 

Skills development has become essential for a competitive workforce. AI and new technologies are changing job duties and creating new skill requirements at an ever-faster pace. To strengthen Sweden’s competitiveness, workers need ample opportunities to develop their skills and adapt throughout their working lives. 

Sweden is one of the world’s leading countries in innovation and has a strong tradition of entrepreneurship. At the same time, international competition for companies, investments, entrepreneurs, and talent is fierce. To create the jobs of the future and strengthen Sweden’s competitiveness, more innovative companies need to be able to start up, grow, and continue to develop in Sweden. This requires competitive conditions for entrepreneurs and companies throughout their growth journey, from the initial idea to international expansion. 

Access to electricity is a fundamental prerequisite for digital infrastructure,  data centers, AI,  and the business sector’s digital transformation. For Sweden to attract investment, develop new technology, and strengthen its competitiveness, it needs an electricity supply with sufficient capacity, high reliability, competitive terms, and efficient processes for new electricity connections throughout the country. 

More and more aspects of everyday life are taking place digitally, from banking and e-commerce to education, healthcare, and interactions with government agencies. At the same time, digital fraud and other online crimes are on the rise. To ensure that both adults and children can use digital services with confidence, a high level of digital security is required. At the same time, measures to enhance security must be carefully balanced so that they do not unnecessarily restrict people’s access to and use of digital services. 

The public sector faces major challenges, including rising costs, a skills shortage, and an aging population. AI and digitalization can contribute to better service, shorter processing times, and a more efficient use of resources. Previous estimates have put the economic potential of AI in the public sector at up to 140 billion kronor per year. During this legislative term, several initiatives have been taken to strengthen digitalization and AI use in the public sector, including the establishment of a joint AI workshop. Here, we compare the parties’ concrete proposals for driving this development forward. 

Sweden’s long-term competitiveness is based on its ability to develop and commercialize new technologies. AI, quantum technology, semiconductors, and other strategic technologies are expected to play a major role in the future of business and societal development. For Sweden to remain a leading nation in innovation, it needs favorable conditions for research, innovation, testing, and collaboration between industry, academia, and the public sector. 

Sweden’s competitiveness is based on high productivity, a strong supply of skilled labor, and a workforce that can be adapted to the needs of different industries and businesses. Proposals for a general reduction in working hours and changes to the waiting-period deduction affect companies’ ability to organize their work, address skill shortages, and create long-term conditions for growth and employment.