Swedish social safety net supports economic productivity

Article Excerpt

Sweden extensive list of government-sponsored benefits don’t alter the fact that it is a free-market economy. Still, it’s the blend of capitalism and socialism that has helped the country lower the gap between its rich and poor citizens to one of the narrowest in the world. Moreover, the country’s economy remains highly competitive with equally high productivity. About 90% of businesses remain in private owners. Swedes access welfare benefits even before they are born, with pregnant women getting free or subsidized prenatal care; parents get 480 days of paid leave when a child is born or adopted. Daycare and preschool programs are also free or subsidized depending on family income levels. The country prides itself on its public school system where school lunches are free. Undergraduate college or university tuition is also free. If students need money for books, food and housing, they get nearly no-interest loans; when they graduate, they often have no debt. Medical and hospital care are basically free until age…