Norrbotten's second RFLL workshop!

In the second workshop of the Regional Futures Literacy Labs (RFLLs) in Norrbotten, participants shared their expectations and aspirations for the region’s sustainable transition. Through thoughtful group discussions, participants explored both probable futures—what they believe is likely to happen—and preferred futures—what they hope will come to pass. These conversations helped to shape a collective vision for a more sustainable and resilient Norrbotten, involving local governments, community organisations, educational institutions, the healthcare sector, and business leaders. 

Building on key themes identified in the first workshop, discussions focused on civil society’s evolving role, population growth, regional attractiveness, economic diversification, environmental responsibility within industry, and the importance of small businesses. From these foundations, participants developed a range of future narratives.  

Changing demographic dynamics, environment, and economy 

One probable future paints a sobering picture of demographic change. Out-migration and an ageing population raise pressing questions about Norrbotten’s long-term economic viability and social sustainability. However, another scenario offers a different outlook, where climate-induced migration brings new residents from southern Europe. This influx could enrich the cultural fabric but also introduce challenges around integration and resource management. While both scenarios acknowledge inevitable demographic shifts, one focuses on loss, while the other hints at the potential for renewal through diversity and cultural integration programmes. 

Similarly, instead of succumbing to demographic decline, a preferred vision focuses on revitalisation and opportunity. Strategies such as renewable energy development and the circular economy are seen as levers for sustainable growth. This future counters the economic anxieties of the probable scenarios, suggesting that proactive measures and creativity can turn challenges into resilience. 

Another probable future highlights the delicate balance between cultural heritage and economic development. The Sami community faces ongoing threats to its traditional way of life due to pressures from forestry, mining, and broader environmental changes. These challenges are further magnified in a scenario where climate shifts disrupt local ecosystems, prompting communities to reassess their conservation and agricultural practices to maintain balance. 

Healthcare visions 

Health and well-being were central themes in the futures imagined by Norrbotten’s citizens. While both probable and preferred futures recognise the growing role of technology in healthcare, they differ in their approach to equity, access, and community needs. 

In the probable future, healthcare is transformed by AI and automation, aimed at improving services in underserved areas. However, access remains uneven, and systemic pressures persist—especially in rural communities. In contrast, the preferred future envisions a more decentralised and community-focused healthcare system. Local health centres, supported by digital services, bring care closer to communities, reducing travel and fostering trust. Ethical concerns around technology are acknowledged, promoting a cautious, values-driven approach. 

Another preferred narrative extends well-being into the workplace. In this future, workplaces prioritise sustainability, creating safe and supportive environments that reflect a cultural shift toward health, safety, and quality of life. 

Collaboration across scales 

Visions for Norrbotten’s future reveal a strong desire for deeper collaboration—within communities, across generations, and across borders. Both probable and preferred futures recognise the growing need for cooperation in the face of demographic shifts, economic pressures, and global change, yet they differ in scale, tone, and approach. 

In the probable futures, collaboration often emerges in response to external challenges. Local governance struggles to adapt to demographic changes, policy shifts, and major land acquisitions, raising concerns about transparency and representation. Meanwhile, cross-border cooperation with neighbouring countries like Finland and Norway is increasingly vital, reflecting a shift towards transnational problem-solving as regional identities and economic ties evolve. 

In contrast, the preferred futures envision collaboration as a locally rooted, deeply participatory process. Governance is decentralised, empowering communities to shape decisions that affect their lives. Local voices are valued, and governance structures prioritise transparency, equity, and responsiveness. 

Community becomes a key driver of resilience. In a preferred vision of collaborative communities, neighbourhoods and villages thrive through mutual support, skill-sharing, and the creation of shared spaces—such as gardens, kitchens, and vehicles. Multigenerational living becomes a cornerstone of this future, fostering connection, stability, and care. 

On a global scale, preferred futures also imagine educational systems that promote international collaboration. AI supports lifelong learning and innovation, connecting students worldwide and building a sense of global citizenship and shared responsibility.  

See how workshop 2’s discussions inform policy seed drafts in workshop 3, where participants focus on the proposals, their impacts, and ensure alignment with community goals.