Norsjö municipality in northern Sweden has established a special task force to address a significant population decline, according to a report from SVT Västerbotten. The municipality experienced a 4 percent population decrease last year, losing 157 residents and bringing the total population to 3,811.
According to new statistics from Statistics Sweden (SCB), Norsjö recorded the largest percentage population decrease of any municipality in the country. Municipal councilor Mikael Lindfors (S) attributed the decline to reduced refugee reception, decreased birth rates, and what he called the 'Northvolt effect.' The bankruptcy of the large battery factory in neighboring Skellefteå municipality reportedly led to increased out-migration from Norsjö as well.
Municipal councilor Mikael Lindfors attributed the decline to reduced refugee reception, decreased childbirth, and the Northvolt effect, where the bankruptcy of a large battery factory in neighboring Skellefteå led to increased out-migration.
'We're connected, we're the same labor market area,' Lindfors explained. 'In 2024 we followed Skellefteå's population increase from the green transition, and now when it goes negative there, it goes negative for us too.'
Despite last year's significant population loss, Norsjö municipality maintains its goal of reaching 5,000 residents by 2050. To achieve this, the municipality has established a working group with representatives from political parties, businesses, civil society, and municipal operations. The group will analyze and plan concrete measures to attract residents.
Lindfors stated that creating more job opportunities is a key focus.
'The working group hasn't started its work yet, but we need to get more job opportunities,' Lindfors said about potential measures. 'When you have job opportunities to attract people with, it's significantly easier.'
Neighboring Skellefteå municipality saw its population decrease by 2,745 people, the largest numerical decrease in the country, bringing its population to 75,405.