The network is supported by the Nordic Council of Ministers because the network seeks to contribute to the fulfilment of both the Nordic Council of Ministers' Vision 2030 and the strategic review of Nordic cooperation in the social field. In other words, the network is part of a strategically important agenda for Nordic cooperation.
With Vision 2030, the Nordic Council of Ministers has a declared goal of making the Nordic region the most sustainable and integrated region in the world. This is achieved by prioritising three strategic areas: A green Nordic region, a competitive Nordic region and a socially sustainable Nordic region. The latter aims to promote an inclusive, equal and cohesive region with shared values and strengthened cultural exchange and welfare.
In parallel with Vision 2030, Nordic cooperation in the social field has undergone a strategic review. Árni Páll Árnason set a clear direction for improving and strengthening future cooperation in the area. Among other things, Árnason points out that the most difficult social challenges cannot be solved in isolation within one sector. When no one has a holistic responsibility, we risk that people will not receive the help they need. There is therefore a need to build bridges between the sectors to create holistic solutions.
In 2021, VIVE conducted a comparative analysis of the organisation of the social field in Norway, Sweden and Denmark. The analysis was based on six themes to describe how the social area in the three countries is organised legislatively, including descriptions of authority, operational and financing responsibilities. The analysis also focused on specialisation and professional management.
The mapping of complex welfare services builds on VIVE's results from 2021 and contributes with increased knowledge about how the Nordic countries meet the need for coordination of complex social efforts. In addition, the mapping presents an overview based on desk research of concrete proposals for Nordic efforts and the basis for cross-sectoral initiatives that coordinate efforts from different sectors via desk research.
The mapping indicates that the Nordic countries – despite differences in legislation, organisation, financing and governance models – face a very similar set of challenges. This underlines the need for common Nordic perspectives and innovative approaches. In this context, the network constitutes a strategic platform where complex issues can be addressed across sectors and national borders.
The mapping also aims to arouse interest among researchers who can investigate why the system challenges are difficult to solve and what can be done to get closer to a more functioning system.