Work

From Movement to Market: A Policy Analysis of Swedish Domestic Violence Shelters (1980–2024)

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Domestic violence shelters are a vital service for abused women and children. The Women's Shelter Movement has historically provided this support. Recently, Sweden has shifted toward marketizing shelters, increasing demands for formalization, and allowing for-profit organizations. This study analyzes policy documents from the 1980s to the present to examine the causes of this shift, its implications for the Women's Shelter Movement, and the accessibility of shelters for abused women. The findings show that the role of women's shelters has changed; public policy has redefined the movement, and reforms have made shelters less accessible for abused women.

Source: Violence Against Women

DOI: 10.1177/10778012261440212

Authors: Felicia Forthmeiier, Veronica Ekström, Johan Vamstad

Institution: Marie Cederschiöld University

Language: English

Topic: Intimate Partner and Family Violence

Subfield: Health

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

SDGs: Gender equality, Peace, justice, and strong institutions, Reduced inequalities

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,650