Vadstena Municipality accepts expressions of interest for the funeral-services ombudsman role until 15 October. The ombudsman reviews the Church of Sweden's funeral operations and represents non-members. Individuals and religious or belief organisations may also nominate directly to the county board by 30 October.
What happened?
The county administrative board will appoint a funeral-services ombudsman in Vadstena for 2027–2030, and the municipality may nominate people. Duties include reviewing how the Church of Sweden accounts for funeral-service costs, dialogue with other religious and belief organisations, and representation of people outside the Church.
The ombudsman also conveys requests from other groups to the principal. This is a public scrutiny and dialogue function, not employment by a funeral director or a role arranging individual funerals.
Location
Vadstena, Östergötlands län
Impact and significance
In many places, the Church of Sweden is responsible for public funeral services, including for non-members. The ombudsman therefore monitors proper operation and finances and protects non-member perspectives. Knowledge of finance and familiarity with religions, beliefs and funeral customs are considered useful.
Impartiality is required. A person may not, among other things, be employed by or hold elected office in the Church, work for a funeral director or have other links undermining confidence. Membership of the Church of Sweden is nevertheless allowed.
Background
Compensation is SEK 8,500 per year plus SEK 450 per meeting, according to the municipality. These amounts are remuneration for the assignment, not a full-time salary. Workload, meeting frequency and practical duties may vary.
The municipality accepts applications for its nomination, while the county board makes the appointment. A municipal nomination therefore does not automatically result in selection.
Latest update
Anyone seeking Vadstena's nomination should email the municipal executive committee by 15 October with a short statement of suitability. Direct nomination to the County Administrative Board of Östergötland is possible until 30 October. Applicants should check conflicts of interest and other impartiality requirements before applying. The county board makes its final selection after nominations; no appointment has yet been made.
Sources
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Reviewed: 2026-09-15. Independent editorial content. WUA Sverige is not affiliated with any political party.