91̽»¨

Northern Sweden is undergoing a dramatic societal transformation with major industrial investments mainly in ‘green industry’. Increased demand for labour is one of the biggest challenges, both within industry and in the public sector. The transition also has economic and social consequences for municipalities and civil society in other ways that make gender equality crucial to ensuring an inclusive and sustainable working life for all.

On behalf of the county administrative boards in Västerbotten, Norrbotten, Jämtland and Västernorrland, a research-based knowledge review will be produced, describing challenges and opportunities for women's and men's sustainable working life in the societal transition in northern Sweden. More specifically, the review aims to contribute to increased knowledge about the significance of gender equality and inequality in the ongoing societal transformation in the four northern counties, with a focus on working life.

The gender-segregated labour market, skills supply and innovation, and the relationship between working life and other life are the main themes. Theoretical starting points are taken in explanatory models of gender, work and place. Gendered norms and expectations as well as the spatial variations of gender relations and site-specific conditions will be described in particular.

Project duration: January 2025-January 2026

Target groups: Officials, politicians and other actors at local, regional and national level.

We collaborate with: The commissioning parties, namely the county administrative boards of Västerbotten, Norrbotten, Jämtland and Västernorrland. In addition, also decision-makers, researchers and other experts and actors working on issues relating to working life and the labour market with a particular focus on social transformation and green transition.