News article
New issue of Forte Magasin: Research giving children and young people a better start in life
Children and young people are important — not only because they represent the future, but also as individuals with the right to a safe and healthy everyday life here and now. In this issue of Forte Magasin, we focus on their living conditions and health, while also highlighting other research that can contribute to a better life — today and for generations to come.
Most children in Sweden grow up in safe environments and are doing well. At the same time, there are still significant and growing disparities that affect children’s health, schooling, and future opportunities. Giving all children a good start in life is not just a matter of fairness — it is one of the most important investments we can make for a sustainable and cohesive society.
– Security, support, and stable relationships are crucial for children’s development. When society’s safety nets fail, the consequences can be severe — both for the individual and for society. Poor health, social exclusion, and criminality are often rooted early on, but timely and well-targeted interventions can change life trajectories, says Jonas Björck, Director General of Forte.
Creating good conditions for growing up requires collective effort. Schools, child healthcare services, social services, and civil society must collaborate to identify and support children at risk early on. But we also need more knowledge about what truly makes a difference. How can we prevent mental health problems? What can counteract social exclusion and strengthen young people’s pathways into education and employment?
– Forte has highlighted the need for more research in this area. That is why we are pleased that the government has tasked us with establishing a ten-year, national research program on children’s and young people’s living conditions and health — a crucial step toward giving more children better opportunities in life, says Jonas Björck.
In this issue of Forte Magasin, we focus on the living conditions and health of children and young people, but we also highlight other socially relevant research that affects us all and can contribute to a better life — here and now, and for future generations.
%20Gammelmormor%20och%20pojke%20busar.jpg)
