You are about to defend your thesis, what is it about?
My thesis explores how communities are increasingly turning to complementary currencies as a way to combat poverty, especially in places where conventional money is scarce. But what does it actually take to implement such currencies? How do they reshape the social, economic, and technical relationships in these communities? I dive deep into these questions by examining the process of "money in the making." Additionally, I engage in a broader discussion about democratizing the creation of money, the evolving role of payment technologies, and the influence of external actors on the success of complementary currencies in impoverished contexts. Ultimately, I aim to show how complementary currencies are tools for social transformation.
In three words, how would you describe your years as a PhD student at LUSEM?
Resilient, tragicomic, engaging.
What are you up to now?
Currently, I’m diving into two new research areas that really excite me. First, I’m investigating the negative impact of cryptocurrencies on vulnerable populations in Sweden. There’s a fascinating—and often troubling—relationship between the utopian visions of cryptocurrencies, social policies, social media, and how they affect marginalized youngsters in Sweden. By examining these dynamics, I hope to shed light on the darker side of financial innovations and its socio-economic consequences.
The second project is more experimental and interdisciplinary. Alongside an atmospheric scientist and a botanists we are exploring how a complementary currency system based on carbon sequestration and bamboo production could work to improve social-enviornmental-economic relations in Colombia’s rural communities. It’s a unique way to think about combining ecological sustainability and economic empowerment, and I’m eager to see where this exploration takes us.
Outside of research, I’m staying busy as a consultant for the Volvo Group, where I focus on technological and financial developments of the engine production market. In my free time, you can usually find me training martial arts or at a live concert with Jorun — passions that keep me energized and balanced!
Wow, sounds super interesting and fun, we wish you all the best Juan!