The course will start with a historical outline capturing the major political developments that have lead up to the current democratic system of post-traditional monarchy. Further, much emphasis will be placed on the transition of the Scandinavian welfare model and the struggle to maintain a proactive and generous state policy on social insurance in a time of global financial insecurity. Scandinavia, in general, and Sweden, in particular, has been renowned for its pioneering work to implement an all-encompassing tax-funded welfare regime.

A critical perspective will be applied onto the Scandinavian model together with a scrutiny of the new trends of labour, migration, multiculturalism and environmental awareness that commonly have entailed a move from linear to reflexive biographies In the program, based on new research on social capital, network governance and economic risk, the unique Scandinavian combination of powerful civic individualism and a strong state will be highlighted. Finally, Scandinavia is widely associated with progression regarding female emancipation and criminal justice. Hence, a part of the program will be dedicated to the modern controversies of gender, sexual politics and crime from a Scandinavian viewpoint.

The Understanding Contemporary Scandinavian Society program also consists of a short introduction to the Swedish language which will give you the vocabulary and principles of grammar needed for basic communicative skills. In addition to the program, some days are planned for social activities and excursions. All extra activities are included in the program at no extra expense.

Click here to see the schedule.

All participants will be awarded a course certificate.

Dates: 2 July - 27 July 2012

Price: 4500 SEK

To apply go to Application Form.