När marken blir värdefull. En intervjustudie med lokala perspektiv på uranbrytningen i Vilhelmina kommun

Abstract

In recent years, geopolitical shifts and the green transition have increased Europe's and Sweden's focus on critical raw minerals and reduced dependency on imports. This has strengthened the interest in domestic extraction, particularly in northern Sweden, while raising questions about balancing resource demand with environmental protection, local interest and long term sustainable development. These global processes have become part of a local conflict surrounding the possibility of uranium extraction in alum shale. While some view mining as an opportunity for economic and regional development, others see it as a threat against nature, local livelihoods and the future for their communities. This study examines how local residents in Vilhelmina perceive the potential uranium extraction in alum shale. The purpose of this study is to investigate local perspectives on sustainability, justice, identity and historical power structures in northern Sweden and Sápmi. It is based on a qualitative research approach using semi-structured interviews. The empirical material was analyzed through a thematic analysis with an interpretative approach. Based on the theoretical framework and empirical results the uranium extraction is viewed as a threat to the environment, the local identity and the future generations. Previous research has mainly focused on indigenous Sámi perspectives and the relationship between mining and indigenous rights. This study contributes by examining broader local perspectives and highlights how questions of sustainability, justice and local self-determination are central to the debate surrounding uranium extraction in northern Sweden.