Sweden has unveiled a new migration policy offering payments of up to 350,000 Swedish kronor ($34,000) to immigrants who voluntarily leave the country, marking a significant shift from its traditional approach toward migration. The policy, announced last week by the right-wing government, reflects Sweden’s evolving stance as it moves away from being a longtime haven for refugees and asylum seekers.
Migration Minister Johan Forssell highlighted the change at a press conference, stating, “We are in the midst of a paradigm shift in our migration policy.” The government, supported by the anti-immigration Sweden Democrats, intends to implement the higher payments starting in 2026.
Currently, immigrants who opt to return to their home countries can receive 10,000 kronor per adult and 5,000 kronor per child, with a family payment cap of 40,000 kronor. The new plan significantly increases this amount to encourage voluntary returns, a step the government hopes will ease the challenges of immigrant integration that have persisted over the years.
A recent government-appointed inquiry had cautioned against such a large increase. Joakim Ruist, who headed the inquiry, argued that offering substantial financial incentives might send a negative message, implying that migrants are unwelcome, which could further hinder integration efforts.
Sweden’s policy aligns with other European nations offering similar return grants, though the amounts vary widely. Denmark offers more than $15,000 per person, while Norway, France, and Germany provide smaller sums of $1,400, $2,800, and $2,000 respectively.
Sweden, known for decades as a “humanitarian superpower,” has faced difficulties in assimilating newcomers into society, contributing to this policy shift. The government hopes the revised grants will address some of these issues by incentivizing voluntary departures, though it remains a topic of debate within the country.
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