Startgängor

Startgängor are temporary work groups in the Swedish labor market, typically formed to address specific tasks or projects that require additional staff. These groups are designed to be short-term, often lasting several months or up to a year, before disbanding.

The concept of startgängor originated in the 1990s in Stockholm, with the aim of providing a flexible workforce to address fluctuating labor demands. They are commonly used in industries such as construction, healthcare, and retail.

Workers in startgängor are usually employed by private companies or public organizations, and are often hired directly by the client. Startgängor can comprise employees from various backgrounds, including freelancers, temporary agency workers, and job seekers.

One of the key features of startgängor is their temporary nature. Employees typically work on a project-by-project basis, which can provide flexibility and variety but also means that workers often have to apply for new positions when a project ends.

According to Swedish labor laws, employees in startgängor are entitled to the same benefits and protections as regular employees, including the right to union membership and access to collective bargaining agreements. Nevertheless, startgängor can also create challenges for workers, such as lack of job security and long-term career prospects.

Startgängor have become a common feature of the Swedish labor market, allowing employers to quickly address short-term labor needs while providing workers with temporary employment opportunities. However, critics argue that the system can perpetuate precarious working conditions and undermine workers' rights.