Legitimizing and Enacting Contradictory Ideals: Squatting in Sweden in the 1980s

Abstract

Squatting in Sweden peaked in the 1980s. Stockholm and Gothenburg were the epicenters, among other smaller towns throughout the country. Researchers identified punk music, influences from abroad, anarchist ideas and the emergence of urban social movements as central to the increase in squatting during this decade. Only a fragmented picture of squatting events has been presented until now, however, often at the city level and during a limited period. This perspective fails to connect squatting actions across the country, and beyond its borders. Departing from the approach to squatting as a form of contentious repertoire, I will analyze how squatters negotiated and legitimized their actions, and in relation to different opponents. Special attention is given to the contradictions caused by different and sometimes contradictory ideals in the communication of the significance of squatting. Based on materials produced by the squatters and other secondary materials, this chapter explores the arenas of interactions, or fields where contentious actors interact within their own group or movement, or with the authorities and the police.