The county board in Norrbotten started its knowledge campaign already before the summer to counteract the vulnerability of the berry pickers. For example, around 50 foreign berry pickers were abandoned in Älvsbyn in August 2021.
– We know that support has not always been given and that routines have been lacking. Now we hope that there is preparedness, but there is very varying knowledge in the county, says Sara Avander at the County Board in Norrbotten.
The municipalities that are having a hard time
Norrbotten’s smaller municipalities are especially vulnerable.
– There are often fewer resources and personnel in the summer and in the small municipalities it can be extra difficult to handle cases related to human trafficking and human exploitation, says Avander.
Extra tough season
Just this year, the county administrative board fears that it could be an extra tough season for the berry pickers.
– There is a concern that it could be a bad berry season compared to previous years. If you cannot pick the berries that are expected, there will be an extra vulnerability.
The vulnerability of the berry pickers often relates to working conditions and the working environment.
– It is often about wages and lack of housing solutions. That you work very long days and may not have access to water or heat, says Sara Avander.
In the video, you can hear how the county administration is trying to equip the county.