Norra Scen in Almedalen: China, competitiveness and cultural policy
How do we strengthen Sweden's competitiveness and defense capabilities in a time of geopolitical uncertainty? How do we secure competence, welfare and viable societies throughout the country? And how are developments in the Arctic connected to the future of Europe? Welcome to Norra Scen in Almedalen – this is where the most important perspectives meet, from mining to space.
Norra Scen is a collaboration between Region Norrbotten, the mining and minerals group LKAB and Luleå University of Technology. For the fifth time, we are opening up our arena for conversations about the challenges that are at their peak in Norrbotten, but are a concern for all of Sweden. Over three days, 23-25 June, we invite you to twelve seminars.
– Northern Sweden is in the midst of a historic change where issues of security, competence and viable societies are crucial. At Norra Scen we want to contribute to broadening perspectives and showing how developments in the north are connected to the future of Sweden and Europe, says Anders Öberg (S), chairman of the regional board of Region Norrbotten.
Anders Öberg will participate in two conversations at Norra Scen this year: From research and education to defense capabilities in the Arctic and Norrbotten's industrial transition, Sweden and the future.
Norra Scen is a meeting place where knowledge is deepened, conversations are held and networks are built. This year's program reflects a changed global situation. In addition to industry, research and societal transformation, security and geopolitical relations are also highlighted. This year, Europe's independence and access to strategic resources are high on the agenda.
Strategically important part of Sweden and Europe
The Arctic perspective is given particular weight in discussions about Norrbotten as a strategically important part of Sweden and Europe. At the same time, the gaze is directed outward, with discussions about Europe's relationship with China and how the continent is strengthening its competitiveness and independence. The role of culture in societal transformation is also highlighted, with questions about how exploitation and development affect the identity of people and places.
The stage at Fiskargränd 5 will be visited by, among others, business leaders, researchers, members of parliament, and representatives of the government and state agencies.
You will find Norra Scen in the garden at Fiskargränd 5, a couple of minutes' walk from Almedalen Park.
– As a university, we can play a crucial role in solving societal challenges. In our seminars in Almedalen, we highlight, among other things, how we can strengthen total defense through research and education, and how we can secure Sweden's competitiveness for the future through teacher education, says Birgitta Bergvall-Kåreborn, vice-chancellor at Luleå University of Technology.
– Europe and Sweden are facing a choice of path where access to critical raw materials determines our future freedom of action. This makes Norrbotten a strategic node. We can contribute to increased security, competitiveness and climate benefits, but this requires action. Without a robust railway, access to electricity or buildable land, there will be no rare earth metals, says Johan Menckel, President and CEO of LKAB.
Contact
Anders Öberg (S)
Chairman of the Regional Board
Phone: 070- 609 35 63
anders.oberg@norrbotten.se
Janus Brandin
Regional Development Director
Tel: 0920-71098
janus.brandin@norrbotten.se
For questions to Johan Menckel, CEO of LKAB:
Erika Lindblad
Communications Manager, LKAB
+46 72 524 12 41
erika.lindblad@lkab.com
For questions to Vice-Chancellor Birgitta Bergvall-Kåreborn or other participants from Luleå University of Technology:
Anna-Karin Landin
Press contact Luleå University of Technology
076-138 90 33
anna-karin.landin@ltu.se
Photos: Freidon Mobaraki