Perpetual adaption? Challanges for the sami and reindeer husbandry in Sweden

Abstract

Reindeer husbandry is of vital importance for the Sami living in Sweden, Norway, Finland and Russia. With a focus on Sweden we can conclude that through a colonial history the reindeer herding Sami have achieved legal rights that to some extent guarantee their existence. This is largely due to a successful political mobilization. On the other hand conflicts over land use with non-Sami settlers and the Swedish state have been a frequent element in the industry. The Sami must also combat a stereotypical understanding of reindeer herding that often has difficulties in understanding the constant modernization and technical development. Today the reindeer herders compete with industries such as mines, hydropower, windmill parks, forestry and tourism. An additional threat is the predators and state policies around them. Reindeer herding is of vital importance to all Sami, but the legal system prohibits the large majority to be involved, something that has had recent political complications in the Sami society.