A large Nordic study following young people in Finland, Sweden, Norway, and Denmark shows that rural youth share common concerns about the future. Many recognize early on that moving or commuting is necessary for education and employment, yet strong ties to their hometowns and dreams of returning often remain.
The study highlights that rural youth develop broad knowledge of their regions, including villages, schools, transport, workplaces, and services, shaping their decisions. While development projects and political initiatives have less influence, relationships with family, friends, and access to nature are central to their life choices.
Sweden stands out for its significant recent investments in rural areas, making it crucial to examine whether such policies affect young peoples’ experiences and decisions compared to other Nordic countries.
The research is part of the program Future Challenges in the Nordics, with Umeå University researchers Maria Rönnlund and Aina Tollefsen leading the Swedish segment.
Source: Umeå University
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