The Moderate Party, the Sweden Democrats, the Christian Democrats and Vård för pengarna are the four parties that will jointly govern Region Sörmland until 2030. The political agreement places particular emphasis on healthcare, workforce development and a sustainable economy.

It was recently confirmed which parties, based on the election result and the distribution of seats, would form the new regional administration.

The Moderate Party (Moderaterna) and the Christian Democrats (Kristdemokraterna) were also part of the previous governing coalition, as was Vård för pengarna (”Care for the Money”), which retains influence despite a weaker election result.

Direction agreed
The Sweden Democrats (Sverigedemokraterna) are the new addition to the governing coalition, having spent the previous term in opposition.

The four parties concluded negotiations last week on the political direction for the coming four-year term.

In their agreement, they identify healthcare accessibility, mental health services, women’s health, the development of the region’s hospitals, regional development, workforce provision and the economy as key priorities.

Clear and unclear announcements
According to the parties, the aim is to strengthen healthcare services, improve working conditions for employees and create a financially sustainable region over the long term.

So far, however, there have been no clear announcements regarding ambitions for education and culture. Region Sörmland operates both Åsa and Eskilstuna folk high school and provides approximately 30 per cent of their funding.

Argues for a sell-out
The future of the folk high schools has previously been the subject of a regional review. The conclusion was that the benefits of retaining the schools outweighed those of closing or selling them. As a result, the region decided to continue operating the schools under its own management.

The Sweden Democrats, who are expected to hold two of the seven positions on the regional executive board, have for several years argued that Åsa should be sold. The proposal was also included in the party’s 2026 election manifesto.

Text: Henrik Wising