About RJ

Through its funding, the foundation wants to promote fundamental research of the highest scientific quality in the humanities and social sciences. RJ has a unique position with its relationship to the Riksdag. The board's composition of parliamentarians and researchers gives the foundation significant and unique characteristics.

Research in the humanities and social sciences is needed to be able to understand and manage society's current challenges, nationally and globally. The research area is in particular need of long-term and stable research funding.

History

Sweden has the world's oldest central bank, and ahead of its 300th anniversary in 1968, the bank wanted to promote an urgent national cause connected to science and research. Therefore, the Riksbank made a donation to establish a prize in economic sciences in Alfred Nobel's memory, and a donation to support future research. On 2 December 1964 the Riksdag decided to establish a foundation for this donation – Riksbankens Jubileumsfond.

Since 1965, the foundation has supported research with a total of SEK 19.3 billion.

RJ received new statutes on 1 January 1988, thus making it an independent financial actor and clarifying its mission. The statutes stipulate that Riksbankens Jubileumsfond is to fund academic research connected with Sweden, with specific responsibility for:

• research that has difficulty receiving funding from other sources
• large and long-term projects
• new research questions requiring prompt, forceful measures
• international research contacts.

During 1993, the Riksdag resolved to supply RJ with an additional donation of SEK 1.5 billion.