Almost all fathers in Sweden take parental leave in connection with the birth of a baby. Furthermore, both mothers and fathers stay at home from work to take care of a child that is ill. The number of pensioners is growing and average life expectancy in Sweden is rising. Read more about policies for the elderly on the Ministry of Health and Social Affairs website . A new pension system entered into force on 1 January 1999.
Pension is based on life income and is also linked to Sweden's economic growth.
If wage-earners' incomes develop positively, pensions will be higher and vice versa. Time devoted to small children, national military service and studies also gives pension rights. For those who have had low income or no income there is basic security in the form of a guarantee pension. The pension system must withstand demographic changes. Read more about the pension reform in Sweden .