The third sector in Scandinavia

This article argues that it is possible to identify a particular Scandinavian third sector model. In contrast to what might generally be expected in view of the relatively huge public sectors of Denmark, Norway and Sweden, the third sector in this model is neither small nor insignificant. Its constituent traits are rooted in history, in popular movements and in trust-based mutual dependency between third sector organisations and public authorities. Though challenged by recent developments, this model is still a cornerstone of the Scandinavian welfare state.