The Swedish Penal Code is the primary legal framework governing criminal law in Sweden. Established in 1965, it outlines various offenses and their corresponding penalties, ensuring a structured approach to justice. The code covers a wide range of crimes, including theft, assault, and homicide, and aims to protect individuals and society while promoting rehabilitation. In addition to defining crimes, the Swedish Penal Code also emphasizes the principles of legality and proportionality in sentencing. This means that punishments must fit the severity of the crime, and individuals cannot be punished for actions that were not clearly defined as illegal at the time they were committed.