The Swedish judicial system has received media attention for increased vulnerability — including threats, harassment and violence. The Courts Administration argues that more work is needed to ensure that security is effective and sustainable. Among other things, there is a lack of an overview of the measures and methods that can be used to strengthen security.
In this project, we compiled findings from a literature review and interviews to identify factors that promote safety culture and behaviours, and to examine the enabling factors at the individual, group, and organisational levels that contribute to a safe working environment in Swedish courts.
The project involves court employees — for example judges, lawyers, clerks, administrative officers, caretakers, and security officers — and to some extent individuals who visit the courts in relation to their roles, such as prosecutors, counsels and lay judges.
The purpose is to identify what contributes to a positive safety culture and sound safety behaviours within the courts. The focus is on preventing threats, violence, harassment, unlawful influence, and corruption. The results are intended to serve as support for the judicial system. The aim is to enhance security and create a safe working environment.
Purpose and objectives
The purpose is to identify what contributes to a positive safety culture and sound safety behaviours within the courts. The focus is on preventing threats, violence, harassment, undue influence, and corruption.
The findings can support the judiciary in their efforts to enhance safety and establish secure courts for both staff and the public.
Author team
The study is being conducted, on behalf of the agency, by Karin Åström and Fanny Holm, both researchers at Umeå University. The project is scheduled for publication in October 2026.