From recession to success – the effects of the 'new industrialization' in a small local community in the county of Norrbotten 2007-2026.

Kan träning av hjärnan minska risken för att äldre faller? Det vill forskare i fysioterapi vid Luleå tekniska universitet ta reda på. I rörelselabbet undersöks både kognitiv förmåga och balans hos äldre, samt hur dessa kan påverkas genom träningsprogram.

Summary

The aim is to study what happens to a small local community's social cohesion, status system and behavioral patterns among its residents when extensive financial investments are carried out there during a short time. The project draws attention to changes in attitudes, values and behavior, status shifts regarding working life and leisure activities, altered views on how time is used and shifts in people's views of the future as an effect of 'new industrialization' in northern Sweden. Empirically, the project deals with the social effects of the establishment of an iron ore mine in Pajala municipality during the period 2007–2026.

Research questions

1. In what way have demography, economy, well-fare, leisure habits and the general health of the local community changed because of the mine establishment?
2. In what way have social status changed between different groups because of the mine establishment
3. What significance has the mining industry in Pajala for young people's perceptions of future career paths?
4. What possible "new" social problems have arisen because of the rapid local growth in the municipality?
5. What new future does people see in Pajala municipality?

Data and method

The project departures partly from existing qualitative and quantitative data/surveys collected in 2008 and 2019/20, and partly on supplementary data which is planned to be carried out in 2025-26 (interviews, surveys) as well as processing of public register data covering health, economy, education, etc.

Societal relevance and utilization

The project provide unique knowledge of the way in which extensive industrial investments in a small community during a limited period, have altered a trend of out-migration, failing health (at an aggregate level) and lack of faith in the future, etc. in both a positive direction as well as giving rise to severe challenges to handle in the municipality.