Am I allowed to strike in Sweden?
Yes — the right to take industrial action such as a strike, blockade and boycott is protected by the constitution and regulated by the Co-determination Act (MBL). But the right belongs to organisations (unions and employers), not individuals acting alone. Under a valid collective agreement there is a peace obligation — you may not strike over matters the agreement covers; a strike is mainly lawful to achieve a new collective agreement. Notice must be given at least 7 working days in advance, simultaneously to the counterparty and to the National Mediation Office. A wildcat strike by individuals breaches the peace obligation.
📋 The rules
- The right to strike is constitutionally protected
- The right belongs to organisations, not individuals
- Under a collective agreement there is a peace obligation
- Notice: at least 7 working days in advance
- Notice goes simultaneously to the counterparty and the Mediation Office
🔓 Exceptions
- Sympathy action supporting another lawful conflict is allowed
- Certain essential public functions face restrictions
- A 2019 reform limited action against an employer who already has a collective agreement
⚠️ Penalties & fines
An unlawful industrial action can bring damages under MBL. Failing to give notice in time can bring a penalty of up to about 1,000 kr, plus liability for damage an unlawful strike causes.
📎 Official sources
- National Mediation Office · Laws and rules →
- National Mediation Office · Strike notice →
- Co-determination Act (1976:580) · Riksdagen →
❓ Frequently asked
Can I strike as an individual employee?
No, not on your own. The right to strike belongs to the union, and a wildcat strike breaches the peace obligation.
What is the peace obligation?
Under a valid collective agreement you may not strike over matters the agreement covers.
How long is the notice period?
At least 7 working days, given simultaneously to the counterparty and to the Mediation Office.
When can a union strike?
Mainly to achieve a new collective agreement, when no agreement binds the parties.
What happens with an unlawful strike?
It can bring damages under MBL, and missing the notice period can bring a penalty.
🔎 Common searches
What people search to land here:
- “am I allowed to strike sweden”
- “right to strike constitution”
- “peace obligation collective agreement”
- “strike notice 7 days”
- “wildcat strike unlawful”
- “mediation office strike”