Principal Marika Andersson - Real solutions to the growing gang violence

In this episode, I have the pleasure of welcoming back Marika Andersson to the podcast with whom I spoke with on 10 Dec 2021. Marika is an outspoken Principal who is known for her no-nonsense and hands-on approach to her work. She continues gaining attention in Sweden for her work in a segregated area in Göteborg, known for its high concentration of ethnic minorities, high unemployment rates, gang-related issues, and criminal activities. Throughout the episode, Marika discusses real solutions to address the escalating gang violence in Sweden, while expressing her opposition to new laws proposing harsher punishments for individuals under 18. Despite facing challenges and encountering resistance, particularly in the form of hate mail, Marika's unwavering commitment to improving the lives of young people remains steadfast and resilient. 

Recommended research articles by Marika,

Hirsh, Å., Liljenberg, M., Jahnke, A., & Karlsson Pérez, Å. (2023). Far from the generalised norm: Recognising the interplay between contextual particularities and principals’ leadership in schools in low-socio-economic status communities. Educational Management Administration & Leadership, 0(0). https://doi.org/10.1177/17411432231187349

Mette Liljenberg, Åsa Hirsh, Anette Jahnke & Åsa Karlsson Pérez (2023) School principals’ perceptions of autonomy and control in low-SES communities - navigating local school administration on the front line, Nordic Journal of Studies in Educational Policy, DOI: 10.1080/20020317.2023.2254677