The Nordic Paradox. Professionals’ Discussions about Gender Equality and Intimate Partner Violence against Women in Sweden

Intimate partner violence against women (IPVAW) is a global public health issue often assumed to be associated with gender inequality. The so-called Nordic Paradox, the apparently contradictory co-existence of high levels IPVAW and equality in countries, has not been adequately explained. This study explores discussions about how this apparent paradox can understood among 30 professionals working southern Sweden, through thematic analysis focus groups individual paired interviews. highlights complexities (in)equality its links relevance for addressing prevention IPVAW.