The People´s Parks and Community Centres in Sweden are unique in the world. There are 125 People´s Parks and 533 Community Centres, with a total of 50 million visitors per year. People´s Parks and Community Centres in Sweden represent an important part of the social economic system.
We believe that a place open for everyone helps to raise understanding of each other and our community. A place where, in many aspects marginalised groups, such as immigrants, women and unemployed can find support and together work for a better future. Therefore, in the long run, these meeting places strengthen democracy.
A Century-old Idea of Freedom
When the trade union and political wings of the labour movement began to organise themselves towards the end of the 19th century, there soon arose a great demand for premises - preferably premises of their own. Opposition to these demands was strong and well organised and workers were not welcome to use existing premises. Landowners even forbade open-air meetings, as they were afraid of the revolutionary ideas that might be ventilated.
Workers in southern Sweden decided to buy up land to fence in and build houses on, and use for their meetings without interference. The idea spread all over the country. That the concept was realised so quickly was a significant step on the path towards equality and democracy. Construction was funded through co-operative ventures, bank loans, various forms of contribution, guarantee associations and not least voluntary work.
The People´s Parks and Community Centres comprise a vast spectrum of establishments and activities: Amusement Parks, Zoos and Open Air Theatres. Cinemas, Restaurants and Concert Halls. Dance Floors, Conference Centres and Art Galleries.
Since 1905 and 1932, respectively, the People´s Parks and Community Centres have gathered in ideological interest organisations. The two organisations have since then co-operated.
As the co-operation grew stronger, The National Federation of People´s Parks and Community Centres was founded at the turn of this century, the 1st of January 2000. It is a federation built to serve its members. The federation offers advice and education in questions on building and real estate, marketing, and legal and economical issues, to name a few things. The federation also produces plays and musicals, handles film distribution for the cinemas, and arranges art exhibitions.