Speaker Norlén urges faster government formation and tighter timelines in Sweden

Andreas Norlén, who was chosen as Speaker after the 2018 election, recalls the lengthy coalition process that culminated in Stefan Löfven’s return as prime minister 134 days after the vote. He argues that the parliament should not separate the prime-minister appointment from the approval of the government's programme, especially the budget, to prevent future mismatches. Norlén calls for a more accelerated timeline in upcoming negotiations, while cautioning against overly rigid deadlines that could hinder dialogue.

He points out that, pending the Riksdag’s meeting on 28 September, the incumbent prime minister Ulf Kristersson continues to lead. That same day will also determine whether Norlén seeks another term as Speaker or returns to a regular parliamentary seat. The speaker stresses that parties, not the Speaker, nominate candidates for the role.