The interdisciplinary and community-driven project Sámi democratic engagement in the energy transition: Advancing justice, legitimacy and participatory governance (SAPIDEM) aims to investigate the Sámi democratic participation as a crucial element for the legitimacy of the energy transition in Norway, Sweden, and Finland.
Recognising a persistent democratic gap in Nordic policymaking, particularly in relation to Sámi involvement in resource development, the project seeks to strengthen participation at all levels.
The core goals of the project include defining what a ‘just transition’ means within Sápmi, examining how national and EU-level regulations affect Sámi participation, and identifying structural reforms needed to ensure justice and legitimacy in future energy developments. It also highlights effective strategies for supporting Sámi voices both now and in the long term.
The research brings methodological innovation to Sámi studies through tools like backcasting and scenario-building, while placing gender and structural justice at the centre of its analysis. Drawing on feminist deliberative theory, it critiques narrow models of democratic engagement and advocates for inclusive, pluralistic processes.
Using interviews, focus groups, surveys, and collaborative policy design, the project will generate valuable insights to support a fair, socially sustainable energy transition grounded in Sámi rights and futures.
