Subsidized employments are a significant part of labor market policy. Annually, payments of 18 billion kronor are made in a system that covers 150,000 employees, mainly in the form of wage subsidies and new start jobs.
The system, notes the National Audit Office, lacks adequate controls and carries significant risks of abuse.
Now, the government wants to tighten controls by allowing the Employment Service to make unannounced visits to companies where there are indications of irregularities.
For example, it may involve individuals and companies receiving financial support from the Employment Service despite not performing any work or the alleged workplace not existing.
Controls are being carried out today, but the possibility of unannounced visits is limited. We do not think that is reasonable. The Employment Service itself has requested this possibility, says Minister for Labor Market Mats Persson (L).
What do you say to those who see this as an invasion of privacy?
I understand the objection. But we are doing this because we see a growing problem with crime and fraud. It is a direct threat to the welfare state, and then the crime-fighting perspective weighs heavier for the government.
The investigation into the Employment Service is to be presented no later than June 13, 2025.
