Understanding the Experiences of Professional Women Leaders Living and Working in Sweden

Abstract

The Problem

Women working across the globe have struggled to achieve positions of leadership while also taking parental leave, accessing affordable child care, and maintaining work–life balance. Alternate models are needed, in particular those relevant to the development and retention of women in the workplace.

The Solution

Scandinavia is leading the world in gender equality (World Economic Forum). Of these progressive Nordic countries, the United Nations Commission has identified Sweden as one of the best countries in the world for women to live and work (World Economic Forum). The purpose of this article is to gain a deeper understanding of the lived experiences of professional women leaders living and working in Sweden.

The Stakeholders

With implications for employee retention and pay equity, this research may be useful for human resource development professionals, leadership developers, and educators. It may also be informative to women across the globe, hoping to learn how other countries treat and support their female and male employees, especially during parental leaves.