Yesterday’s tax system won’t solve today’s challenges – New book highlights urgent need for reform

Sweden’s tax system has remained largely unchanged since the early 1990s. On June 17, a new book was launched – Experternas guide till skattegalaxen – tolv röster om behovet av en skattereform – aimed at reigniting the debate on tax policy and exploring potential paths forward. The anthology, edited by Mats Bergstrand, has been co-financed by the Karl-Adam Bonnier Foundation.

The book brings together twelve leading voices from diverse fields – including economics, legal studies, social anthropology, and business – all offering their perspectives on why a broad tax reform is needed now more than ever. Among the contributors are well-known experts such as Lars Calmfors, Klas Eklund, Åsa Hansson, Ann Öberg, and Leif Östling.

– We need to get the question of comprehensive tax reform back on the political agenda. Eleven years ago, a similar anthology was published. Much has changed in the world since then – but not in the Swedish tax system. With growing geopolitical tensions and a shifting demographic landscape, a renewed push for reform is both timely and necessary, says editor Mats Bergstrand.

Sweden faces mounting challenges that demand smarter, more efficient use of taxpayers’ money – while also supporting long-term, sustainable growth. A shrinking workforce is expected to support an aging population. At the same time, a rapid and large-scale military and civil defense buildup is underway, and major investments in infrastructure are urgently needed.

– Many consider the idea of a new tax reform politically dead. But as we’ve seen with issues like NATO membership, foreign aid, and even nuclear weapons, political realities can shift quickly, continues Mats.

The book explores both the potential and the obstacles of a major reform. It delves into the complexity of Sweden’s current tax structure, its vulnerabilities in a globalized and digital world, and the need for modern solutions. While the contributors hold different views on the direction and scope of a reform, they all agree on one thing: the system needs a serious review to ensure future efficiency, fairness, and legitimacy.

– Given the societal challenges Sweden now faces, this book is essential reading for anyone interested in the country’s economic future, Mats concludes.

The project has been financed by Almega, with support from the Karl-Adam Bonnier Foundation and investor Mats Qviberg.

– The tax system plays a crucial role in shaping the conditions for business and growth. That’s why the foundation saw great value in supporting a publication that revives the discussion on the urgent need for reform, says Tor Bonnier, CEO of the Karl-Adam Bonnier Foundation.