Sweden
In education there are still cases reported to the Equality Ombudsman of victimisation in schools, bullying, harassment and racist violence of migrant and minority students. The Committe for Social Rights concluded in 2011 that the situation in Sweden was not in conformity with several articles in the European Social Charter, among others Article 17§2 of the Charter on the ground that children unlawfully present in the territory do not have effective access to education.There is also evidence that migrants have unequal access to the Swedish Health Care, housing, the employment market and the judicial system.
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Anti-discrimination Legislation & Implementation
Sweden adopted a new Anti-Discrimination Act (SFS 2008:567) which came into force on 1 January 2009 and merged the anti-discrimination legislation into one law and extended the scope of protection. The different Ombudsmen were merged into a single institution. Regarding human rights, Sweden is still in the process of establishing an accreditated National Institution for the Promotion and Protection of Human Rights.
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Are there specialised bodies/agencies/mechanisms which receive, handle/investigate complaints in discrimination cases?
Yes. The Equality Ombudsman receives, handles and investigates complaints of discrimination.
Qualitative Info
In conjunction with the adoption of the new Anti-discrimination Act (SFS 2008:567), which came into force 1 January 2009, a new agency was established by merging the four previous anti-discrimination ombudsmen: the Equality Ombudsman (DO). The Equality Ombudsman is mandated to supervise compliance with the Anti-discrimination Act, to combat discrimination and promote equal rights and opportunities for everyone. A central task for DO is to investigate complaints of discrimination. This may include representing the victim of discrimination in settlement proceedings or, ultimately, in a court of law. The Ombudsman can also, for example, make independent surveys, reports and recommendations. The purpose of having a single Ombudsman on anti-discrimination issues is that it will ensure a more effective and powerful monitoring of compliance with the Act. This merger is also expected to improve the conditions for dealing with cases of multiple discrimination. The Equality Ombudsman can apply to the new Board against Discrimination for a financial penalty to be ordered against employers and education providers that do not fulfil their obligation to take active measures.
Source: The Equality Ombudsman, http://www.do.se
Groups affected/interested
- Migrants
- Refugees
- Roma & Travelers
- Muslims
- Ethnic minorities
- Religious minorities
- Linguistic minorities
- Majority
- Asylum seekers
- Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender
- Persons with disability
- Africans/black people
- National minorities
Type (R/D)
- Anti-migrant/xenophobia
- Anti-semitism
- Islamophobia
- Afrophobia
- Anti-roma/zinghanophobia
- Religious intolerance
- Intra-ethnic
- Homophobia
- On grounds of disability
- On grounds of other belief
- Anti-roma/ romaphobia
- Xenophobia
Key socio-economic / Institutional Areas
- Employment - labour market
- Housing
- Health and social protection
- Education
- Culture
- Media
- Anti-discrimination
- Anti-racism
- Daily life
- Religion
External Url http://www.do.se
See other countriesSee indicator history -
Are there mechanisms in place to collect data on racial discrimination in line with data protection legislation as an effective means of, monitoring and reviewing policies and practices to combat racial discrimination and promote racial equality?
Yes, but as a main rule according to the Swedish Personal Data Act (1998:204), it is prohibited to process personal data that discloses race or ethnic origin.
Qualitative Info
The gathering of data on ethnic origin is still a controversial issue in Sweden. As a main rule according to the Swedish Personal Data Act (1998:204), it is prohibited to process personal data that discloses race or ethnic origin. No official statistics of people’s ethnic origins other than citizenship and country of birth are available. Statistics Sweden (SCB) gathers data on Country of birth, citizenship, foreign and Swedish background according to age and gender. These divisions make it difficult to gather data about the differences between different ethnic groups in Sweden.
In the recent report from the CERD (21 August 2008) concern was raised about Sweden's position regarding the collection of data on the ethnic composition of the population. The Committee reiterates its concern about the paucity of such data at its disposal for the monitoring of the Convention and regrets the lack of information on the criteria used for collecting data concerning the situation of migrants.
Sources: The Swedish Personal Data Act (1998:204) http://www.coe.int/t/dghl/standardsetting/dataprotection/national%20laws/SWEDEN_PDAct.pdf (Accessed 2012-03-10)
CERD, CERD/C/SWE/CO/18, 21 August 2008, http://www2.ohchr.org/english/bodies/cerd/docs/co/CERD-C-SWE-CO-18.pdf (Accessed 2012-03-10)
Statistics Sweden (SCB), http://www.scb.se/ (Accessed 2012-03-10)
Groups affected/interested
- Migrants
- Refugees
- Roma & Travelers
- Muslims
- Ethnic minorities
- Religious minorities
- Asylum seekers
- Persons with disability
- Africans/black people
- National minorities
Type (R/D)
- Anti-migrant/xenophobia
- Anti-semitism
- Islamophobia
- Afrophobia
- Arabophobia
- Anti-roma/zinghanophobia
- Religious intolerance
- Intra-ethnic
- On grounds of other belief
- Anti-roma/ romaphobia
- Xenophobia
Key socio-economic / Institutional Areas
- Anti-discrimination
- Anti-racism
- Integration - social cohesion
- Daily life
- Religion
External Url http://www.scb.se/
See other countriesSee indicator history -
Does legislation provide for the possibility of adopting special/positive measures prevent or compensate for disadvantages linked to racial or ethnic origin in order to ensure full equality in practice?
Yes.
Qualitative Info
In the new Discrimination Act (2008:567) ethnicity and religion have an exemption from the prohibition of discrimination regarding labour market policy activities and for the people’s universities (Ch. 2 Sec. 6 and 9). A right for members of certain religions to refuse military service is also explicitly exempted (Ch. 2 Sec. 15). The Discrimination Act also contains rules on “active measures”. From an EC-law perspective such measures are within the realm of positive action in a more general meaning. The Act requires that the employers carry out a goal-oriented work to actively promote ethnic diversity in working life.The exception to the obligation to draw up such plans applies to employers who have fewer than 25 employees at the end of the last calendar year. In the area of education, there is an option to impose sanctions against education providers that do not fulfil their obligation to take active measures. Education providers can be ordered to fulfil these obligations or risk having to pay a fine.
Source: Discrimination Act (SFS 2008:567) http://www.sweden.gov.se/content/1/c6/11/81/87/f6e1a2b8.pdf (accessed 03.03.2012).
Report on measures to combat discrimination, Directives 2000/43/EC and 2000/78/EC, Country Report 2010, Sweden, Per Norberg, European network of legal experts in the non-discrimination field, http://www.non-discrimination.net/content/media/2010-SE-Country%20Report%20LN_final.pdf (accessed 03.03.2012).
Groups affected/interested
- Migrants
- Refugees
- Roma & Travelers
- Muslims
- Ethnic minorities
- Religious minorities
- Asylum seekers
- Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender
- Persons with disability
- Africans/black people
- National minorities
Type (R/D)
- Anti-migrant/xenophobia
- Anti-semitism
- Islamophobia
- Afrophobia
- Anti-roma/zinghanophobia
- Religious intolerance
- Intra-ethnic
- Homophobia
- On grounds of disability
- On grounds of other belief
- Anti-roma/ romaphobia
- Xenophobia
Key socio-economic / Institutional Areas
- Policing - law enforcement
- Employment - labour market
- Housing
- Health and social protection
- Education
- Culture
- Political discourse -parties - orgs
- Political participation
- Anti-discrimination
- Anti-racism
- Daily life
- Religion
External Url http://www.sweden.gov.se/content/1/c6/11/81/87/f6e1a2b8.pdf
See other countriesSee indicator history -
Are special/positive measures for securing advancement and protection of certain racial or ethnic groups widely adopted and implemented?
Yes, according to the Anti-discrimination Act (SFS 2008:567) but they are not adequtely implemented. This was criticised by the CERD Committee, in August 2008.
Qualitative Info
Chapter three in the Discrimination Act, contains rules on the requirement of employers and education providers to actively promote equality, so called active measures. These rules do not require positive action if it is defined as eliminating or reducing a certain barrier for a certain protected group or to compensate that group for its disadvantaged position, Country Report 2010, Sweden, Per Norberg, http://www.non-discrimination.net/content/media/2010-SE-Country%20Report%20LN_final.pdf, p. 9).
However, the rules containing "active measures" can from an EC-law perspectivebe considered to be within the realm of positive action in a more general meaning. The Act requires that the employers carry out a goal-oriented work to actively promote ethnic diversity in working life (Chapter 3 Section 3 of the Discrimination Act).
Ethnicity and religion have an exemption from the prohibition of discrimination regarding labour market policy activities and for the people’s universities (Ch. 2 Sec. 6 and 9). A right for members of certain religions to refuse military service is also explicitly exempted (Ch. 2 Sec. 15).
In education strong forms of positive action is allowed only at the people’s universities, a form of education designed to admit students that have little or no academic background. People’s universities are free to design their own courses and programs. They are not bound by the normal educational hierarchy. The universities are required to do goal-orientated work with regard to ethnicity. There is a requirement on the universities to adopt plans to this end on a yearly basis (Ch 3. Sec. 16.).There is a Roma People’s University and other people’s universities can (and sometimes do) give courses aimed at and reserved for the Romany population. Creating educational programs reserved for special groups like immigrants, persons with disabilities or women is considered normal in this form of education (Country Report 2010, Sweden, Per Norberg, http://www.non-discrimination.net/content/media/2010-SE-Country%20Report%20LN_final.pdf, p. 87).
As regards indigenous minorities such as the Sami and the Roma, there are special rights and supportive measures as regard the use of their native language as well as access to media and as regards the Sami also on land rights and reindeer management. From 2011 the Sami people have their reindeer management rights recognised in the constitution.
The CERD Committee raised concern in it's concluding observations in August 2008, that the Committee is concerned that the new Anti-Discrimination Act of July 2008 does not provide for the adoption of special measures regarding vulnerable racial or ethnic groups, with the exception of certain measures related to immigrant employment agencies. It recalls that special measures for the advancement of certain groups are required when circumstances so warrant, provided that such measures do not, as a consequence, lead to the maintenance of separate rights for different racial groups. (arts. 1(4), and 2(2)).
Source: The CERD Committee, CERD/C/SWE/CO/18, 21 August 2008 http://www2.ohchr.org/english/bodies/cerd/docs/co/CERD-C-SWE-CO-18.pdf (accessed 2012-03-10).
Country Report 2010, Sweden, Per Norberg, http://www.non-discrimination.net/content/media/2010-SE-Country%20Report%20LN_final.pdf (accessed 2012-03-10).
Groups affected/interested
- Migrants
- Refugees
- Roma & Travelers
- Muslims
- Ethnic minorities
- Religious minorities
- Asylum seekers
- Persons with disability
- Africans/black people
- National minorities
Type (R/D)
- Anti-migrant/xenophobia
- Anti-semitism
- Islamophobia
- Afrophobia
- Arabophobia
- Anti-roma/zinghanophobia
- Religious intolerance
- Intra-ethnic
- Nationalism
- On grounds of disability
- On grounds of other belief
- Anti-roma/ romaphobia
- Xenophobia
Key socio-economic / Institutional Areas
- Policing - law enforcement
- Employment - labour market
- Housing
- Health and social protection
- Education
- Culture
- Media
- Political discourse -parties - orgs
- Political participation
- Anti-discrimination
- Anti-racism
- Integration - social cohesion
- Daily life
- Religion
External Url http://www.non-discrimination.net/content/media/2010-SE-Country%20Report%20LN_final.pdf
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Is legal support for victims available from public agencies/bodies? Is there access for victims to assistance and justice?
The Crime Victim Compensation and Support Authority (Brottsoffermyndigheten) offers financial support to victims.
Qualitative Info
The Crime Victim Compensation and Support Authority (Brottsoffermyndigheten) was founded in 1994. It is a governmental authority charged to act for the needs and interests of crime victims. It is an autonomous body serving under the Ministry of Justice. Its main duties are administration and payment of state compensation but in its role as Expertise Centre for crime victims it also deals with information on crime victims and the spreading of knowledge in matters related to crime victims. As administrator of the Fund for Victims of Crime instituted through the Fund for Victims of Crime Act (1994:419), it also distributes money for the benefit of crime victims.
As a rule, victims of serious crimes are entitled to free counseling and support services in connection with the preliminary investigation and trial. A person who has been awarded damages receives a written offer from the enforcement services to assist with collection of the debt. If the perpetrator is not able to pay, or if a perpetrator has not been found, and there is no insurance that can cover all the damages, the victim of crime may receive compensation from the state known as criminal injuries compensation. This compensation is intended primarily for personal injury and violation.
Source: The Crime Victim Compensation and Support Authority (Brottsoffermyndigheten) http://www.brottsoffermyndigheten.se/
Groups affected/interested
- Migrants
- Refugees
- Roma & Travelers
- Muslims
- Ethnic minorities
- Religious minorities
- Linguistic minorities
- Majority
- Asylum seekers
- Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender
- Persons with disability
- Africans/black people
- National minorities
Type (R/D)
- Anti-migrant/xenophobia
- Anti-semitism
- Islamophobia
- Afrophobia
- Anti-roma/zinghanophobia
- Homophobia
- On grounds of disability
- On grounds of other belief
Key socio-economic / Institutional Areas
- Education
- Internet
- Integration - social cohesion
- Daily life
- Religion
External Url http://www.brottsoffermyndigheten.se/
See other countriesSee indicator history -
Does the law foresee the shift of the burden of proof in civil / administrative procedures? Are there problems of implementation reported by independent authoritative sources?
Yes
Qualitative Info
A shift of the burden of proof is required in Ch. 6 sec. 3 of the Discrimination Act. The relevant section reads: “If a person....demonstrates reason to presume that he or she has been discriminated against... the defendant is required to show that discrimination or reprisals have not occurred.”
The victim of discrimination must present facts that make it possible to presume that discrimination has occurred (a similar situation and unfavourable treatment). Thereafter the burden of proof is shifted to the accused who must show that one of the requirements is not fulfilled or that the unfavourable treatment was not associated with the ground in question. No intent to discriminate is required (Per Norberg, Report on measures to combat discrimination, Directives 2000/43/EC and 2000/78/EC, Country Report 2010, Sweden).
The Supreme Court treats less favourable treatment in a similar situation as the fact that makes the presumption apply. The burden of proof is thus sometimes reversed when the victim proves a similar situation and a less favourable treatment. The Labour Court applies the presumption more narrowly. The plaintiff must always prove the similar situation and the less favourable treatment according to normal standards of proof. The presumption applies only to the causal link between these two facts and the ground of discrimination. If that is so, the Labour Court may apply the rules on shared burden of proof in a very restricted way, especially with regard to ethnicity (Per Norberg, Report on measures to combat discrimination, Directives 2000/43/EC and 2000/78/EC, Country Report 2010, Sweden).
Source:
The Discrimination Act (SFS 2008:567), http://www.do.se/Documents/pdf/new_discrimination_law.pdf (accessed 03.03.2012).
Sandesjö 2010 (Jurcom AB), Domar i diskrimineringsmål 1999-2009, p.11.
Per Norberg, Report on measures to combat discrimination, Directives 2000/43/EC and 2000/78/EC, Country Report 2010, Sweden.
Groups affected/interested
- Migrants
- Refugees
- Roma & Travelers
- Muslims
- Ethnic minorities
- Asylum seekers
- Persons with disability
- Africans/black people
- National minorities
Key socio-economic / Institutional Areas
- Anti-discrimination
External Url http://www.do.se/Documents/pdf/new_discrimination_law.pdf
See other countriesSee indicator history -
Can associations, organisations or other legal entities, who have a legitimate interest, engage, either on behalf or in support of the complainant, with his or her approval, in any judicial and/or administrative procedure concerning discrimination?
Yes.
Qualitative Info
In the Antidiscrimination Act (2008:567), non-profit organisations have the legal standing to litigate discrimination cases. The preconditions for this right are stipulated in Chapter 6 Section 2 of the Discrimination Act, which states that non-profit organisations whose statutes include the right to protect the interests of its members and the right to bring actions in their own name as a party to the litigation can represent victims in Court. The association must have the consent of the individual and be suited to represent the individual in the case, taking account of its activities and its interest in the matter, its financial ability to bring an action and other circumstances. Their right to so represent a victim is secondary to that of a trade union in the employment field.
Trade unions have legal standing to litigate discrimination cases where one of their members is involved. Under Chapter 4, Section 5 of the Labour Disputes (Judicial Procedure) Act (1974:371), the Ombudsman or an association may only bring an action if the trade union does not do so.
Several Anti-discrimination bureaus and NGO’s have welcomed this opportunity as strengthening the role of NGO’s to fully be an independent actor in discrimination cases. The Anti-discrimination bureau, Örebro Rättighetscenter [Örebro Rights Center] made use of this right by filing their first law suit in a discrimination case to court. The case concerned a Roma woman who was forced to pay for gasoline in advance as well as having her rights violated through insulting remarks about her ethnicity. Örebro Rights Center filed a lawsuit against the petrol station for discrimination and demanded 20 000 SEK (2000 Euros) in compensation to the woman. The Göta Court of Appeal ruled in October 2011, that the petrol station exposed the woman to direct discrimination associated with the woman's ethnicity. The gas station was imposed to pay 5000 kronas (555 euros) in discrimination compensation to the woman.
Source:
The Antidiscrimination Act (2008:567), http://www.do.se/Documents/pdf/new_discrimination_law.pdf (accessed 04.03.2012)
Örebro Rights Center, 03.10.2010, http://www.adbsverige.se/ (accessed 04.03.2012)
Groups affected/interested
- Migrants
- Refugees
- Roma & Travelers
- Muslims
- Ethnic minorities
- Religious minorities
- Asylum seekers
- Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender
- Persons with disability
- Africans/black people
- National minorities
Type (R/D)
- Extremism - organised Racist Violence
- Anti-migrant/xenophobia
- Anti-semitism
- Islamophobia
- Afrophobia
- Arabophobia
- Anti-roma/zinghanophobia
- Religious intolerance
- Intra-ethnic
- Nationalism
- Homophobia
- On grounds of disability
- On grounds of other belief
- Anti-roma/ romaphobia
- Xenophobia
External Url http://www.do.se/Documents/pdf/new_discrimination_law.pdf
See other countriesSee indicator history -
Is class action or actio popularis possible? (court claims or action in the name of a group)
Yes, class action is possible according to the Group Proceedings Act entered into force on January 1, 2003.
There is no possibility for actio popularis in the Swedish national law allowing associations to act in the public interest on their own behalf, without a specific victim to support or represent.
Qualitative Info
In the Antidiscrimination Act (2008:567), non-profit organisations have the legal standing to litigate discrimination cases. The preconditions for this right are stipulated in Chapter 6 Section 2 of the Discrimination Act, which states that non-profit organisations whose statutes include the right to protect the interests of its members and the right to bring actions in their own name as a party to the litigation can represent victims in Court. The association must have the consent of the individual and be suited to represent the individual in the case, taking account of its activities and its interest in the matter, its financial ability to bring an action and other circumstances. Their right to so represent a victim is secondary to that of a trade union in the employment field.
Antidiscrimination Act (2008:567), http://www.notisum.se/rnp/sls/fakta/a0080567.htm (accessed 2012-03-10).
Groups affected/interested
- Migrants
- Refugees
- Roma & Travelers
- Muslims
- Ethnic minorities
- Religious minorities
- Linguistic minorities
- Majority
- Asylum seekers
- Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender
- Persons with disability
- Africans/black people
- National minorities
Key socio-economic / Institutional Areas
- Anti-discrimination
External Url http://www.notisum.se/rnp/sls/fakta/a0080567.htm
See other countriesSee indicator history -
Is there provision within anti-discrimination legislation/practice forfinancial compensation/restitution of rights and are these applied in practice?
Yes.
Qualitative Info
In the new discrimination Act from 1 january 2009 (2008:567), a new penalty, compensation for discrimination, was introduced for infringements of the Discrimination Act. The aim is to avoid a link to the Tort Liability Act and thereby create better conditions for higher levels of compensation for victims of discrimination. Compensation for discrimination is designed to both compensate for the violation represented by an infringement and act as a deterrent against discrimination. The Equality Ombudsman has been effective in using the new discrimination compensation. This new potentially innovative tool, replaces the concept of damages, since damages tended to be substantially low. Therefore, the new concept of compensation has been imposed as a sanction to raise both compensations and settlement payments to real deterrent levels. The Eqaulity Ombudsman reported in its annual report 2010 that the new sanctions have been effective in terms of increased claims in the authority's lawsuits and higher remuneration in the settlements. The highest compensation during 2010 has been 200 000 SEK (20 000 euros). This can be compared to 100 000 SEK (10.000 euros) in the previous damage sanctions.
A woman was refused the opportunity to rent an apartment because her husband was a Roma. The Equality Ombudsman and the landlord reached an agreement whereby the woman received 40 000 SEK (4,000 euros) in compensation. The woman was at the showing of an apartment with a management company in Finspång and signed a contract the next day. The neighbours threatened to move claiming that they previously had problems with Roma in the area. The Equality Ombudsman (DO) investigated the case and determined that the woman was the victim of ethnic discrimination.
Ärende OMED 551/ 2008 (2010.09.01), http://www.do.se/sv/Press/Pressmeddelanden/Kvinna-nekades-hyreskontrakt--far-40-000-kronor-efter-forlikning/
The Equality Ombudsman, http://www.do.se
Groups affected/interested
- Migrants
- Refugees
- Roma & Travelers
- Muslims
- Ethnic minorities
- Religious minorities
- Linguistic minorities
- Majority
- Asylum seekers
- Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender
- Persons with disability
- Africans/black people
- National minorities
Type (R/D)
- Anti-migrant/xenophobia
- Anti-semitism
- Islamophobia
- Afrophobia
- Anti-roma/zinghanophobia
- Religious intolerance
- Inter-ethnic
- Nationalism
- Homophobia
- On grounds of disability
- On grounds of other belief
- Anti-roma/ romaphobia
- Xenophobia
Key socio-economic / Institutional Areas
- Policing - law enforcement
- Employment - labour market
- Housing
- Health and social protection
- Education
- Culture
- Media
- Internet
- Sport
- Anti-discrimination
- Anti-racism
- Daily life
- Religion
External Url http://www.do.se/
See other countriesSee indicator history -
Are there any problems concerning the implementation of national legislation prohibiting discrimination?
Yes.
Qualitative Info
In the Concluding observations of the Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination (CERD), 18 August 2008, the Committee was concerned that the new Anti-Discrimination Act of July 2008 does not provide for the adoption of special measures regarding vulnerable racial or ethnic groups, with the exception of certain measures related to immigrant employment agencies. It recalls that special measures for the advancement of certain groups are required when circumstances so warrant, provided that such measures do not, as a consequence, lead to the maintenance of separate rights for different racial groups. (arts. 1(4), and 2(2)).
Furthermore, the CERD Committee remained concerned about the absence of any explicit criminal law provisions declaring illegal and prohibiting organizations promoting and inciting racial hatred. (art.4). The Committee was also concerned about discrimination in the judicial and law enforcement systems against persons of non-Swedish background. The Committee is particularly concerned about allegations of racial prejudice among judicial personnel and about the lack of legal interpreters. (arts. 5(a) and 6).
The CERD Committee also raised concern about discrimination against persons of foreign origin persists in a number of areas. It is particularly concerned about the lower employment rate among persons of immigrant origin, especially women.
Source:Concluding observations of the Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination (CERD), 18 August 2008. http://www.unhcr.org/refworld/publisher,CERD,CONCOBSCOMMENTS,SWE,,0.html
Groups affected/interested
- Migrants
- Refugees
- Roma & Travelers
- Muslims
- Ethnic minorities
- Asylum seekers
- Africans/black people
- National minorities
Type (R/D)
- Extremism - organised Racist Violence
- Anti-migrant/xenophobia
- Anti-semitism
- Islamophobia
- Afrophobia
- Arabophobia
- Anti-roma/zinghanophobia
- Intra-ethnic
- On grounds of other belief
- Anti-roma/ romaphobia
- Xenophobia
Key socio-economic / Institutional Areas
- Employment - labour market
- Housing
- Health and social protection
- Education
- Culture
- Media
- Internet
- Political discourse -parties - orgs
- Political participation
- Anti-discrimination
- Anti-racism
- Integration - social cohesion
- Daily life
- Religion
External Url http://www.unhcr.org/refworld/publisher,CERD,CONCOBSCOMMENTS,SWE,,0.html
See other countriesSee indicator history -
Has there been a thorough evaluation/assessment of the effectiveness of the national implementation of EU Anti-discrimination Directives?
No. There has not been a thorough evaluation/assessment of the effectiveness of the national implementation of EU Anti-discrimination Directives in Sweden.
Groups affected/interested
- Migrants
Key socio-economic / Institutional Areas
- Anti-discrimination
- Anti-racism
External Url www.do.se
See other countriesSee indicator history
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Are there specialised bodies/agencies/mechanisms which receive, handle/investigate complaints in discrimination cases?
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Employment
In 2011, the number of employed immigrants was 67,1 % compared to 71,9% of the general population. The rate is particularly low among immigrant women, for whom the employment rate is 56.5% and has decreased since 2010. The UN Committee which monitors the Convention on the Elimination of Race Discrimination (CERD), in its most recent recommendations on Sweden’s compliance with CERD (2008) stated that Committee is concerned that the new Anti-Discrimination Act of July 2008 does not provide for the adoption of special measures regarding vulnerable racial or ethnic groups, with the exception of certain measures related to immigrant employment agencies.
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Legal restrictions and/or effective practices of exclusion of migrants regarding membership of and participation in trade unions
No, there is no evidence of legal restictions and/or effective practices of exclusion of migrants regarding membership of and participation in trade unions.
Groups affected/interested
- Migrants
Key socio-economic / Institutional Areas
- Employment - labour market
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Legal obstacles to access employment in the public sector under equal conditions for migrants
Yes. There are legal obstacles to access employment in the public sector under equal conditions for migrants for certain public occupations that require Swedish citizenship.
Qualitative Info
According to Chapter 11 Sec. 11. of the Instrument of Government Swedish citizenship is required for judges, Chapter 6 Sec. 9 says that government ministers must have Swedish Citizenship, the Chancellor of Justice, the Parliamentary Ombudsman and the three Auditors General are the other examples when Swedish Nationality is required by the Instrument of Government (http://www.sweden.gov.se/sb/d/12711/a/138927).
Positions were the person is elected by the Parliament requires Swedish citizenship according to the Riksdag Act (1974:153) Ch. 7 Sec. 11. This Act has a semi constitutional status. As regard other legislation there are some (but rare) occasions where Swedish nationality is required, though (http://www.regeringen.se/sb/d/108/a/2316).
Source:
Government bill 2009/10:80 p. 333, http://www.sweden.gov.se/sb/d/12711/a/138927 (accessed 2012-03-10).
SOU 2000:106, Medborgarskapskrav i svensk lagstiftning, http://www.regeringen.se/sb/d/108/a/2316 (accessed 2012-03-10).
Groups affected/interested
- Migrants
Key socio-economic / Institutional Areas
- Employment - labour market
External Url http://www.regeringen.se/sb/d/108/a/2316
See other countriesSee indicator history -
Legal restrictions and/or effective practices of exclusion of minorities regarding membership of and participation in trade unions
No. There are no legal restictions and/or effective practices of exclusion of minorities regarding membership of and participation in trade unions.
Groups affected/interested
- National minorities
Key socio-economic / Institutional Areas
- Employment - labour market
- Integration - social cohesion
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Does the law provides for legalizing the situation of illegal immigrants in order to ensure their right to work and access to social protection and care?
No.
Qualitative Info
The law does not provide for legalizing the situation of illegal immigrants in order to ensure their right to work.
Regarding access to health care, there was In May 2011, an investigation report Vård efter behov och på lika villkor – en mänsklig rättighet SOU 2011:48 was submitted to the Government. The aim of the inquiry was to propose regulation regarding health care, including dental care, to be offered to undocumented migrants in Sweden. [1] The number of undocumented migrants in the country is estimated to be between 10,000 and 35,000 people.[2]
Although the Inquiry proposed that undocumented patients should have access to health care as the permanent residents, there is still a lot of confusion regarding the existing regulations.
[1] Ministry of Health and Social Affairs (Dir. 2010:7), http://www.sweden.gov.se/sb/d/12483/a/138677
[2] Vård efter behov och på lika villkor– en mänsklig rättighet (SOU 2011:48), http://www.regeringen.se/content/1/c6/16/98/15/1ce2f996.pdf
Groups affected/interested
- Migrants
- Refugees
Key socio-economic / Institutional Areas
- Health and social protection
External Url http://www.sweden.gov.se/sb/d/12483/a/138677
See other countriesSee indicator history -
Are there examples of good practices and positive initiatives against discrimination/racism at the workplace?
Yes. There are many examples of good practices and positive initiatives against discrimination/racism at the workplace initiated by NGO's.
Groups affected/interested
- Migrants
- Refugees
- Roma & Travelers
- Muslims
- Ethnic minorities
- Religious minorities
- Asylum seekers
- Africans/black people
- National minorities
Key socio-economic / Institutional Areas
- Employment - labour market
-
Legal restrictions and/or effective practices of exclusion of migrants regarding membership of and participation in trade unions
-
Housing & Segregation
Discrimination in the housing sector persists. There is evidence of significant levels of segregation between migrant groups and the majority population. Migrant and minority groups face especially serious problems in accessing housing of an acceptable quality. Roma are reported to be most segregated and discriminated on the housing market.
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Is there evidence of particular difficulties faced by migrant/minority groups in purchasing or renting property of their choice?
Yes.
Qualitative Info
The Equality Ombudsman reached a settlement with a landlord in Avesta who denied a woman to rent an apartment because she is Roma. According to the woman, the landlord was at first in favour of renting the apartment to the woman and her family. When she met him to look at the apartment, he quickly changed his mind after realising she was Roma. The landlord said he would first ask other tenants in the building if they would like to have a Roma as a neighbour, but after a few days, the woman declined to rent the apartment. The Equality Ombudsman investigated the complaint and determined that the landlord exposed the woman to ethnic discrimination. The Equality Ombudsman and the landlord reached an agreement awarding the woman and her children 120,000 kronor. [1]
The Equality Ombudsman concluded a settlement with HSB-association in Haparanda to pay a Roma woman and her three children a total of 100, 000 kronor (10,000 euros). The woman made an agreement to buy an apartment from a seller but the housing association’s board argued it did not want a Roma living in their building stopped the purchase. [2]
[1] 2011-04-29: Settlement, Case Number: NOTE 2009/519
[2] Ärende ANM 2009/ 6 http://www.do.se/sv/Press/Pressmeddelanden/Romsk-familj-far-ersattning-efter-forlikning-med-HSB-forening/ (2010.08.24).
Groups affected/interested
- Roma & Travelers
Key socio-economic / Institutional Areas
- Housing
External Url www.do.se
See other countriesSee indicator history -
Affected group with particular difficulties in purchasing or renting property of own choice
Refugees, Roma and migrants from south Eastern Europe, Asia, Africa, or Latin America (designated as 'visible' minorities).
Qualitative Info
Refugees: According to the housing market survey for 2011, 85 municipalities stated that refugees with permanent residence and those who intend to live permanently in the municipality have difficulties, particularly in obtaining a mortgage.[1]
Roma: Complaints from Roma constitute 20% of the complaints on discrimination in the housing market, both in terms of provision of apartments for rent and purchase of private apartments. Discriminatory behaviour and harassment by landlords or neighbours is also reported.
Visible minorities: In a report published from the National Board of Health and Welfare (2010) it is reported that visible minorities in Sweden, which are migrant groups originating in south Eastern Europe, Asia, Africa, or Latin America counts as "visible", are increasingly vulnerable to ethnic segregated neighbourhoods and economic poverty. 70 per cent of visbile minorities living in ethnic segregated neigbourhoods did not have an income from work. They either studied, were unemployed, lived on early retirement pensions, sick leave, or living on social assistance. People with incomes below the relative poverty line (60percent of median income) were overrepresented in these neighborhoods). Poverty is a major obstacle to obtaining mortage for housing. [2]
[1] Boverket,http://www.boverket.se/Boende/Analys-av-bostadsmarknaden/Bostadsmarknadsenkaten/Riket-grupper/Flyktingar/
[2] Socialstyrelsen, Social Rapport 2010, p.12 http://www.socialstyrelsen.se/Lists/Artikelkatalog/Attachments/17957/2010-3-11.pdf
Groups affected/interested
- Migrants
- Refugees
- Roma & Travelers
- Muslims
- Ethnic minorities
- Religious minorities
- Africans/black people
- National minorities
Type (R/D)
- Xenophobia
Key socio-economic / Institutional Areas
- Housing
External Url http://www.boverket.se/Boende/Analys-av-bostadsmarknaden/Bostadsmarknadsenkaten/Riket-grupper/Flyktingar/
See other countriesSee indicator history -
Are there positive initiatives with an impact on housing of migrant and minority groups?
Yes
Qualitative Info
Forix - Suburbian parliament (Förorternas Riksdag) works to combat intolerance, racism and xenophobia through young marginalized peoples advocacy. The aim is to capture the political will that exists among young people living in the immigrant segregated suburbs by organizing training courses and meetings in cities across Sweden (Forix http://www.forix.se).
The project Suburb in the Centre (Förorten i Centrum) has been run by the Red Cross, with financial support the General Heritage Foundation (Allmänna Arvsfonden) and the foundation Culture of the Future (Framtidens Kultur), and is intended to stimulate young people's faith in the future and their pride in themselves and the place where they live. One of the aims of the project is to provide young people with a channel where they can express their thoughts by means of art. The youth can through art tell stories about living in the immigrant segregated areas such as Husby in north Stockholm. The youth get a chance to tell other stories about their neighbourhoods to oppose the negative media image of their residential area. The youth are often categorised as 'immigrants' that do not participate in the Swedish society. This project wants to show another picture of being an immigrant youth in the surburbs (http://www.forortenicentrum.org/), accessed 2012-03-11
Forix (accessed 2012-03-10).
The project Suburb in the Centre (Förorten i Centrum), http://www.forortenicentrum.org/ (accessed 2012-03-10).
Groups affected/interested
- Migrants
Key socio-economic / Institutional Areas
- Housing
External Url http://www.forortenicentrum.org/, http://forix.se/
See other countriesSee indicator history
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Is there evidence of particular difficulties faced by migrant/minority groups in purchasing or renting property of their choice?
-
Education
There are problems with educational attainement by migrant students. One in four students with a migrant background left compulsory school without the qualifications to enter the national programme in upper secondary school (gymnasiet) compared to one in 10 pupils with a Swedish background. The legal regulations in the educational field for the national minorities is still weak and children’s right to their minority language is not realized.
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Practical obstacles and evidence of problems and differential enrollment rates for certain minorities?
Yes, there is.
Qualitative Info
The former Ombudsman against Ethnic Discrimination (DO), published a report in November 2008 about national minorities. The report entitled Diskriminering av nationella minoriteter inom utbildningsväsendet [Discrimination of national Minorities in the education system] contributed with knowledge about the situation of national minorities in the education system by illustrating their experiences of discrimination and proposing measures to prevent and combat discrimination.[1] The report also showed the widespread discrimination of national minorities due to their ethnic background and how the group experienced these acts of violations and harassments on an everyday bases.
In a study commissioned by DO 40 % of Roma children indicated that they were not open about their Roma identity in school. Some of them claimed that they were from Poland. Many Romanies expect discrimination at school from teachers, children and parents. Harassment and other forms of discrimination contributes to a high rate of absence from school. [2]
[1]Pikkarainen Heidi and Brodin Björn, Diskriminering av nationella minoriteter inom utbildningsväsendet (Ombudsmannen mot etnisk diskriminering, DO report no. 2008:2).
[2] DO (2003) Discrimination of Romanies in Sweden, p. 15.
Groups affected/interested
- National minorities
Key socio-economic / Institutional Areas
- Education
External Url www.do.se
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Practical obstacles and evidence of problems and differential enrollment rates for migrants?
Yes.
Qualitative Info
In the Government Bill Knowledge without borders – higher education in the era of globalisation (Government Bill 2008/09:175) the Government argues that in the long term the internationalisation of Sweden’s higher education ought to benefit from the introduction of fees for studies at universities and other higher education institutions in Sweden for students who come from countries outside the EU/EEA and Switzerland.
Swedish universities have now introduced tuition fees for foreign students, except for exchange students and those from within the EU and Switzerland. Tuition fees for international students will range between 90,000-250,000 kronor (9,000-25 000 euro) per year, depending on the programme and school. While over 16,000 non-EU students were enrolled at Swedish universities during the last academic year, fewer than 1,300 are registered for the 2011 autumn term.
Source:
Government Bill Knowledge without borders – higher education in the era of globalisation (Government Bill 2008/09:175) http://www.sweden.gov.se/content/1/c6/12/41/93/b408cc03.pdf (accessed 2012-03-10).
Groups affected/interested
- Migrants
Key socio-economic / Institutional Areas
- Education
External Url http://www.sweden.gov.se/content/1/c6/12/41/93/b408cc03.pdf
See other countriesSee indicator history -
Poorer educational performance by certain groups?
Migrants' children.
Qualitative Info
The Swedish School Inspectorate (Skolinspektionen) announced in a report published in 2010 that multicultural kids and students at Sweden’s preschools and schools are falling behind due to the inability of teachers to address their needs.[1] The agency undertook a study of 21 preschools and 21 schools in 12 municipalities. The findings offer examples of both problems and solutions concerning language and knowledge development of multilingual children.
Statistics show that students who immigrated after starting school, are less able to cope with school. These students succeed to a lesser degree in obtaining the objectives of mathematics, English and Swedish or Swedish as a second language, which are required to obtain entry to high school in the national programs. The proportion of eligible pupils for high school has declined significantly, both among those born in and outside Europe.[2]
[1] Skolinspektionen: språk och kunskapsutvecklingen hos barn och elever med annat modersmål än svenska (rapport 2010:16)
[2] PROP. 2011/12:1 UTGIFTSOMRÅDE 13, Budget Bill 2012, Integration, p. 17
Groups affected/interested
- Migrants
Key socio-economic / Institutional Areas
- Education
External Url http://www.skolinspektionen.se/
See other countriesSee indicator history -
Problems with educational attainement by certain groups (drop out - fragmentation of educational experience)?
Yes, pupils with migrant background.
Qualitative Info
The Government reportedin the Budget Bill 2011/12:1 about education that monitoring and research shows that in addition to students’ socioeconomic background, age at the time of migration is of great importance for school performance. Children born in Sweden to foreign parents and children who arrived in Sweden before starting school are as well placed to cope with the Swedish elementary school as children with a Swedish background. High school eligibility of pupils born outside the EU / EFTA countries has increased by 1.2 percentage points in 2000-2010.[1]
There are differences between boys and girls who were born outside the EU / EFTA and who came to Sweden before or at starting school. The girls succeed better than boys regardless of whether they come to Sweden before or after starting school. Despite this, the proportion of girls who were born outside the EU / EFTA countries and who came to Sweden after starting school among students eligible for upper secondary school declined by 21.4 percentage points in 2000-2010 compared with 1.5 percentage points among native-born girls.[2]
In total, 11.2% of students leaving compulsory school in spring 2009 did not pass their exams, or 10.1% of the girls and 12.4% of the boys. The drop-out rate at the national programme in upper secondary school is reported to be higher for migrant children than for students with a Swedish background. The Swedish Radio’s Ekot (Sveriges Radio's Ekot) news bulletin reported that one in four students with a migrant background left compulsory school without the qualifications to enter the national programme in upper secondary school (gymnasiet) compared to one in 10 pupils with a Swedish background (Sveriges Radio, http://sverigesradio.se/).
[1] PROP. 2011/12:1 UTGIFTSOMRÅDE 13, Budget Bill 2012, Integration, p. 16.
[2] PROP. 2011/12:1 UTGIFTSOMRÅDE 13, Budget Bill 2012, Integration, p. 17
Sveriges Radio, http://sverigesradio.se/ (accessed 2012-03-10).
Groups affected/interested
- Migrants
Key socio-economic / Institutional Areas
- Education
External Url http://www.regeringen.se/content/1/c6/17/55/29/dacaae9d.pdf
See other countriesSee indicator history -
Are there positive initiatives to improve/support poor educational provision for migrant and minority groups?
Yes.
Qualitative Info
The government has launched an ambitious program for to improve educational achievement in school. An initiative being implemented is to strengthen basic skills in reading, writing and mathematics. In 2008-2009 the government directed a total of SEK 900 million (90 million Euro) to activities for students at risk of not achieving the goals of the school. Among these students with special needs are those with a immigrant background. A total of 3.6 billion SEK invested in the so-called lifting the teacher years 2007 and 2010. A special teacher training has been introduced with a focus on assisting those students who have difficult to achieve the national objectives, which in particular concerns students with a immigrant background.
In addition to the overall quality improvement efforts are also targeted at newly arrived refugee students. The School Agency (Skolverket) has, at the initiative of the government, presented general guidelines for newly arrived students'education in autumn 2008. The focus on teachers' training is an opportunity for teachers to develop their knowledge in teaching Swedish as a second language. The lack of qualified teachers makes it difficult for municipalities and schools to provide mother tongue education.
Source: Ministry of Integration, http://www.regeringen.se/content/1/c6/13/77/30/6ef4871f.pdf (accessed 2012-03-10).
Groups affected/interested
- Migrants
Key socio-economic / Institutional Areas
- Education
External Url http://www.regeringen.se/content/1/c6/13/77/30/6ef4871f.pdf
See other countriesSee indicator history -
Victimisation in schools (bullying/harassment/racist violence) ?
Yes.
Qualitative Info
In October 2010, the Equality Ombudsman settled a case with the municipality of Dals-Ed. The case involved an African boy who was subjected to racist abuse and degrading treatment by other pupils at the school. The settlement awarded to the boy was 75,000 SEK (7,500 euros). The racial harassment and death threats had been going on for a long period time, but the school had failed to correct them despite being aware of them. When the boy finally fought back he was regarded as ‘disturbing’ by the school staff. The municipality of Dals-Ed admitted the flaws according to the law prohibiting discrimination and other degrading treatment of children and students.[1]
Groups affected/interested
- Migrants
- Africans/black people
Key socio-economic / Institutional Areas
- Education
External Url www.do.se
See other countriesSee indicator history -
Provision of option to learn mother language other than the majority's
Yes
Qualitative Info
There is no right to minority language education. There is only a duty for the municipalities to arrange it (Per Norberg, Report on measures to combat discrimination, Directives 2000/43/EC and 2000/78/EC, Country Report 2010, Sweden, (p. 69).One pupil is enough to activate this duty .
A migrant student who wishes to have teaching in her/his mother tongue is entitled to this, as long as one or both of her/his guardians has a language other than Swedish as their mother tongue and if the student has basic knowledge of the language. Yet, municipalities are only obliged to provide native language training in a language only if a suitable teacher is available.
The Government and public authorities have a duty to promote the public use of lesser-used languages . Minority groups who want to use Finnish or Sami when in contact with the five state agencies have the right to do so and be made aware of that right. The agencies covered by the demand include the Tax Agency (Skatteverket), the Social Insurance Agency (Försäkringskassan), the equality and discrimination ombudsmen (JO and DO), as well as the Office of the Chancellor of Justice (Justitiekanslern). Other agencies are urged to at least have employees who can speak Finnish, Sami, and Meänkieli.[1]
Mother-tongue instruction and bilingual instruction have an important role to play in supporting and strengthening minority languages. As part of its supervisory responsibilities, the National Agency for Education is required to monitor the development of mother tongue and bilingual instruction for national minorities. The schools are obligated to provide such teaching as regulated in Chapter 2 Sections 9-14 of the Compulsory School Ordinance.
[1] http://www.rod.se/politikomraden/kultur_och_idrott/Dagis-pa-finska-blir-rattighet/ (accessed 2012-03-10).
Per Norberg, Report on measures to combat discrimination, Directives 2000/43/EC and 2000/78/EC, Country Report 2010, Sweden, (p. 69), http://www.non-discrimination.net/content/media/2010-SE-Country%20Report%20LN_final.pdf (Accessed 2012-03-10).
Groups affected/interested
- Migrants
- Roma & Travelers
- Ethnic minorities
- Linguistic minorities
- National minorities
Key socio-economic / Institutional Areas
- Integration - social cohesion
External Url http://www.rod.se/politikomraden/kultur_och_idrott/Dagis-pa-finska-blir-rattighet/
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Evidence of modifying school curricula and teaching materials can be modified to reflect the diversity of the school population
Yes.
Qualitative Info
An example of measures financed or undertaken by the authorities that depict minorities as an enrichment for society is the newly published anthology ‘Ten pins in the air [Tio Pinnar i Luften] by the Swedish National Agency for Education [Skolverket]. The book is intended to be used in education about national minorities' languages and cultures. [1]
Groups affected/interested
- National minorities
Key socio-economic / Institutional Areas
- Education
External Url http://www.valentin.uu.se/Omdirigering.htm
See other countriesSee indicator history -
Are there in schools good practices/positive initiatives and intercultural coexistence plans designed to solve problems of discrimination racism or xenophobia?
Yes.
Qualitative Info
From January 1, 2009, the work against discrimination and harassment is regulated in both the Discrimination Act (2008:567) and the Education Act (2010:800). Schools or preschool must draw up an equality plan and an annual plan to combat degrading treatment. The Equality Ombudsman (DO) in collaboration with Child and School Student Representative (BEO) at the Schools Inspectorate and Education Administration have developed a free webtool called Planforskolan.se, that helps schools combine the two plans into one.
The tool is aimed primarily at school staff or others responsible for implementing policies against discrimination and degrading treatment of children.
Groups affected/interested
- Muslims
- Ethnic minorities
- Religious minorities
- Africans/black people
- National minorities
Key socio-economic / Institutional Areas
- Education
- Anti-discrimination
- Anti-racism
External Url http://www.planforskolan.se/
See other countriesSee indicator history -
Is the teacher regular curricula/training dealing with specific reference to immigrants or ethnic minorities and respect/promotion of diversity?
Yes.
Qualitative Info
On 1 July 2011, a new Education Act (2010:800) with an integrated curriculum for primary education, compulsory school, Sami school and special school entered into force. The Draft Act and the national curriculum both stipulate that all people who work in schools are obliged to promote respect for human rights and clearly disassociate themselves from anything that conflicts with these values.[1]
[1] Education Act (2010:800), http://www.skolverket.se/lagar-och-regler/2.3351(accessed 2012-03-10).
Groups affected/interested
- Migrants
- Africans/black people
- National minorities
Key socio-economic / Institutional Areas
- Education
- Anti-discrimination
- Anti-racism
- Integration - social cohesion
External Url http://www.skolverket.se/lagar-och-regler/2.3351
See other countriesSee indicator history
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Practical obstacles and evidence of problems and differential enrollment rates for certain minorities?
-
Health And Social Protection
Sweden does not offer equal access to health care to all persons, irrespective of ethnic origin and status. Undocumented migrants have still no access to health care on equal terms, despite the recommendations done by the inquiry on health for all. The number of undocumented migrants in the country is estimated to be between 10,000and 35,000 people. The vulnerability for migrant and ethnic women in accessing and receiving effective health care is indictated by the available cases brought to the Equality Ombudsman.
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Is there evidence of increased morbidity rates for minority and migrant groups?
Sweden does not maintain official statistics concerning ethnic origin other than citizenship and country of birth. The main rule according to the Swedish Personal Data Act (1998:204). Therefore there is no official data on that evidence the increased morbidity rates for minority and migrant groups.
Qualitative Info
Sweden does not maintain official statistics concerning ethnic origin other than citizenship and country of birth. The main rule according to the Swedish Personal Data Act (1998:204) states that ’[...] the maintenance of personal data that reveals race or ethnic origin is prohibited’.[1] In the opinions delivered by the Advisory Committee established under the Council of Europe’s Framework Convention for the Protection of National Minorities (FCNM) the lack of data was critiqued as contributing to the complication of the formulation, implementation, evaluation and improvement of minority policies.
Groups affected/interested
- Migrants
- National minorities
Key socio-economic / Institutional Areas
- Health and social protection
-
Specific health issues such as diseases specific to particular groups
Yes.
Qualitative Info
The Centre for Health and Integration (Centrum för hälsa och Integration) published a study that revealed that many refugees with a residence permit experienced anxiety, headache and trouble with sleeping and concentration difficulties. Of the 44 respondents these problems were strongly related to various traumatic events in their lives. 93 % of the men had been victims of violence, and over 70 % of the women and 40 % of the children had witnessed violence towards a loved one. Nearly one third of the children had a loved one killed.[1]
Another report published by The Swedish National Institute of Public Health [Folkhälsoinstitutet] called “How are Sweden’s national minorities doing?” (Hur mår Sveriges nationella minoriteter?).[2] the study showed that there are clear links between the health situation of national minorities, such as high unemployment, a sense of alienation, powerlessness and discrimination. Here are some results from the report:
The Roma reported problems with high alcohol consumption, primarily among men and young people. They also reported gambling and pill addictions, as well as drug abuse, as growing problems.
The country's indigenous Sámi population had similar health conditions as the wider population in terms of life expectancy. But there are significant differences between the 2,500 reindeer herding Sámi and their 20,000 non-reindeer herding counterparts, with the former running an increased risk of workplace accidents and suicide.
Swedish Finns were found to be in worse physical condition than the majority population, while psychological problems are more common among men in this group than in the population at large. Swedish Finns are also heavier smokers and financially less well off than the rest of the population.
Tornedalers are in slightly worse physical health than the population as a whole. They are also less physically active, less involved in social affairs and more financially vulnerable than the majority population.
Jews on the other hand are in better physical, mental and financial shape than the population at large. They also showed higher levels of social participation than the general population. Male Jews did however report levels of discrimination that are above the norm.
[2] The report ”Hur mår Sveriges nationella minoriteter?” download at Folkhälsoinstitutet (In Swedish) http://www.fhi.se/Aktuellt/Nyheter/Halsosituationen-bland-de-nationella-minoriteterna/
Groups affected/interested
- Refugees
- Roma & Travelers
- National minorities
Key socio-economic / Institutional Areas
- Health and social protection
External Url http://www.fhi.se/Aktuellt/Nyheter/Halsosituationen-bland-de-nationella-minoriteterna/
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Differential access to social protection system and benefits - Do some or more categories of migrants minorities or stateless/non-citizens face limitations and restrictions?
Yes.
Qualitative Info
In May 2011, an investigation report Vård efter behov och på lika villkor – en mänsklig rättighet SOU 2011:48 was submitted to the Government. The aim of the inquiry was to propose regulation regarding health care, including dental care, to be offered to asylum seekers and undocumented migrants in Sweden. [1] The number of undocumented migrants in the country is estimated to be between 10,000and 35,000 people.[2]
Although the Inquiry proposed that asylum seekers and undocumented patients should have access to health care as the permanent residents, there is still a lot of confusion regarding the existing regulations. Recently it was reported that a hospital in central Sweden refused to perform an operation on a 16-year-old unaccompanied refugee boy because the doctor didn't think the Swedish Migration Board would pay for the procedure. Mölndal municipality, where the 16-year-old first came when he first arrived in Sweden, has reported the hospital to the National Board of Health and Welfare [3]
[1] Ministry of Health and Social Affairs (Dir. 2010:7), http://www.sweden.gov.se/sb/d/12483/a/138677
[2] Vård efter behov och på lika villkor– en mänsklig rättighet (SOU 2011:48), http://www.regeringen.se/content/1/c6/16/98/15/1ce2f996.pdf
[3] The Local, http://www.thelocal.se/30394/20101124/
Groups affected/interested
- Refugees
- Asylum seekers
Key socio-economic / Institutional Areas
- Health and social protection
External Url http://www.regeringen.se/content/1/c6/16/98/15/1ce2f996.pdf
See other countriesSee indicator history -
Do migrants have a higher risk of poverty than the rest of the population?
Yes.
Qualitative Info
Sweden is reported as one of the EU member states were the proportion of foreign born persons aged 20-64 are at risk of poverty after social transfers. This risk is over 12 percentage points higher than the proportion for the total population in this age group (Eurostat: Methodologies & Working papers, Indicators of Immigrant Integration, A Pilot Study, http://epp.eurostat.ec.europa.eu/cache/ITY_OFFPUB/KS-RA-11-009/EN/KS-RA-11-009-EN.PDF p.184).
The migrant population, particularly those born outside the EU tend to have a higher risk of poverty than other sections of the community. The at-risk-of-poverty rate is as high as 30% in Sweden in 2007 (European Commission, Employment, Social Affairs and Equal Opportunities Social Situation Observatory – Living Conditions and Income Distribution 2010, http://ec.europa.eu/social/BlobServlet?docId=6722&langId=en p. 11).
The disadvantage of households with a relatively large number of migrants is particularly high in Sweden where the at-risk-of-poverty rate for such households is at least three times more than that of households with no migrant members (European Commission, Employment, Social Affairs and Equal Opportunities Social Situation Observatory – Living Conditions and Income Distribution 2010, http://ec.europa.eu/social/BlobServlet?docId=6722&langId=en p.13)
One of the most debated issues surrounding housing is the increasing number of immigrant children living in poor neighbourhoods. Save the Children published the annual report about child poverty in February 2011. It was stated that children living with single parents in ethnic segregated neighbourhoods are affected by poverty the most. It is estimated that 49% of children living with single parents with a migrant background live in poor housing conditions and in poverty. In 2008, about 220,000 children lived in poverty – that is, 11.5% of all children in Sweden. It is the highest figure since the investigation was initiated in 2002. In Malmö, child poverty is estimated to be 31%. In Rosengård in Malmö, which is a predominantly a migrant neighbourhood, more than 61.4% of the children live in poverty. [1]
[1] Save the Children report with its annexes can be downloaded from: http://www.rb.se/press/pressmeddelanden/Pages/Barnfattigdomen_i_Sverige_ett_brott_mot_Barnkonventionen.aspx
European Commission, Employment, Social Affairs and Equal Opportunities Social Situation Observatory – Living Conditions and Income Distribution 2010,
http://http://ec.europa.eu/social/BlobServlet?docId=6722&langId=en
Eurostat: Methodologies & Working papers, Indicators of Immigrant Integration, A Pilot Study, http://http://epp.eurostat.ec.europa.eu/cache/ITY_OFFPUB/KS-RA-11-009/EN/KS-RA-11-009-EN.PDF
Groups affected/interested
- Migrants
- Roma & Travelers
- Muslims
- Ethnic minorities
- Religious minorities
- Africans/black people
- National minorities
Key socio-economic / Institutional Areas
- Housing
- Health and social protection
- Integration - social cohesion
External Url http://ec.europa.eu/social/BlobServlet?docId=6722&langId=en
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Are there policies and/or good practices accomodating culture/ traditions' respect in health care
Yes, but there is a lack of research into migrants' health and their experience with the Swedish medical system in relation to issues of accomodating culture/traditions and respect in health care.
Qualitative Info
In the recently published dissertation, "The meeting between the patient and the doctor: experiences among Somali refugees and medical trainees" Kristian Svenberg with the Sahlgrenska Academy at Gothenburg University. (December 2011), http://www.thelocal.se/38198/, found that people from other cultures sometimes find there is an unnecessarily authoritarian approach toward them by Swedish healthcare personnel.
The research is based on the experience of Somali refugees in Sweden. Many Somalians, in particular, feel they are not taken seriously when they seek help for health problems. The author states in the report that a prerequisite for a functioning health care is that the meeting between patient and doctor is characterized by mutual respect and understanding. If this is not working it could easily result in misunderstanding, incorrect treatment and unnecessary examinations.
As a part of his study, Svenberg also interviewed doctors in training and found they sometimes find it difficult to understand patients from Somalia.
There are often misunderstandings when an interpreter is present and some doctors tell of feeling left out when they cannot communicate directly with their patient. When there are problems, some doctors choose to approach the patient with curiosity and try to explore the patient's background in order to create trust and understanding. But other doctors adopt an old-school authoritarian approach to control the situation.
Svenberg thinks there is a lack of research into refugees' health and their experience with the Swedish medical system and hopes his research will help improve the treatment of people from different cultures
Source:
The Local, http://www.thelocal.se/38198/ (accessed 2012-03-11).
Groups affected/interested
- Migrants
- Muslims
- Ethnic minorities
- Africans/black people
Type (R/D)
- Islamophobia
- Afrophobia
Key socio-economic / Institutional Areas
- Health and social protection
External Url http://www.thelocal.se/38198/
See other countriesSee indicator history
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Is there evidence of increased morbidity rates for minority and migrant groups?
-
Political & Civic Participation
In the elections 2010, about 7.6% of the officials elected to the municipality were born abroad, while in the county councils the figure is 7.7% and 8% in parliament. Third country nationals have the right to vote at the if they have been registered residents in Sweden for a continuous period of three years. Only Swedish citizens are entitled to vote in the National Parliamentary Elections. To become a Swedish citizen, generally you have to be a resident in Sweden for five years. National minorities also face obstacles regarding political participation in society. Very few changes have been made to strengthen the Sámi Parliament or the Sámi’s indigenous rights, despite the fact that Sweden has been heavily criticized in the international arena for its handling of Sámi issues. Regular consultations with national minorities have not yet been established in many municipalities and county councils, in spite of the requirements in the Minority Act.
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Migrants' political rights - right to vote to national/local elections
Yes, to local elections.
Qualitative Info
According to (Vallagen SFS 2005:837) Third country nationals (migrants) have the right to vote at the local level/regional level elections if they have been registered residents in Sweden for a continuous period of three years before Election Day. With voting rights cames the right to stand for the municipal elected office. http://www.val.se
Only Swedish citizens are entitled to vote in the National General Parliamentary Elections.
The Election Act (SFS 2005:837) (Vallagen SFS 2005:837), http://www.val.se
Groups affected/interested
- Migrants
Key socio-economic / Institutional Areas
- Political participation
External Url http://www.val.se
See other countriesSee indicator history -
Outreach - encourage participation - Practical obstacles or problems for migrants in exercising their right to vote
Electoral participation among foreign-born is generally lower than for native-born Swedes.
Qualitative Info
Fewer foreign-born are also members of political parties, even if there has been a greater decline in membership among the Swedish native population.
In the elections 2010, about 7.6% of the officials elected to the municipality were born abroad, while in the county councils the figure is 7.7% and 8% in parliament.
According to (Vallagen SFS 2005:837) Third country nationals (migrants) have the right to vote at the local level/regional level elections if they have been registered residents in Sweden for a continuous period of three years before Election Day. With voting rights cames the right to stand for the municipal elected office. http://www.val.se
Only Swedish citizens are entitled to vote in the National General Parliamentary Elections. To become a Swedish citizen, generally you have to be a resident in Sweden for five years.
The Election Act (SFS 2005:837) (Vallagen SFS 2005:837), http://www.val.se(accessed 2012-03-12).
Migrationinfo.se, http://www.migrationsinfo.se/blogg/medborgarskapsutredning/ (accessed 2012-03-12).
Groups affected/interested
- Migrants
Key socio-economic / Institutional Areas
- Political participation
External Url http://www.val.se, http://www.migrationsinfo.se/
See other countriesSee indicator history -
Migrants have the right to stand for elections at local/national level?
Yes, but only on the local/regional level. At the national level, only Swedish citizen's can stand for elections.
Qualitative Info
According to (Vallagen SFS 2005:837) Third country nationals (migrants) have the right to stand for municipal and council elections if they have been registered residents in Sweden for a continuous period of three years before Election Day. At the national level, only Swedish citizen's can stand for elections.
Groups affected/interested
- Migrants
Key socio-economic / Institutional Areas
- Political participation
External Url www.val.se
See other countriesSee indicator history -
Minority members have certain rights to self-government?
No, although there is the Sami Parliament but it is not a body for self-government.
Qualitative Info
The Sami Parliament in Sweden was established in 1993 as a publicly elected body and a state authority, with the overall task of working to achieve a living Sami culture. The Sami Parliament is not a body for self-government. The publicly elected component comprises 31 members who meet three times a year in the Plenary Assembly. Only the President is a full-time employee of the Parliament.
Indigenous minorities such as the Sami and the Roma, have special rights and supportive measures as regard the use of their native language as well as access to media and as regards the Sami also on land rights and reindeer management. From 2011 the Sami people have their reindeer management rights recognised in the constitution.
Source:
The Sami Parliament, http://www.eng.samer.se/servlet/GetDoc?meta_id=1103 (accessed 2012-03-10).Groups affected/interested
- National minorities
Key socio-economic / Institutional Areas
- Political participation
External Url http://www.eng.samer.se/servlet/GetDoc?meta_id=1103
See other countriesSee indicator history -
Are migrants' representatives engaged in any formal consultation with public authorities?
Yes.
Qualitative Info
In Sweden, civil society, including migrants representing their organisations are often called upon in the process of drafting policies on human right's, anti-discrimination, anti-racism. In the drafting of Sweden's third Action Plan on Human Right's, The Government sought an open and transparent process, involving government agencies, civil society and other stakeholders at an early stage. Review dialogues with NGO's are often part of implementing policies in Sweden. The Government’s human rights website http://www.manskligarattigheter.se has been used to inform and consult stakeholders. The coordinating ministries have also held open-ended meetings with NGO's to inform about and collect views on the process.
The Swedish Forum for Human Rights is a civil society forum for human rights and a meeting place for politicians, students, public officials, activists and researchers. It is the largest human rights event in the Nordic countries, gathering more than 1 500 participants each year. Organisations of migrants are also part of this forum.
The Swedish National Board for Youth Affairs administers a forum for the Government and civil society organisations. This task includes regularly holding the Forum for civil society conference which also includes migrant organisations.
There are institutionalised fora for communication and regular interaction between minority and majority Communities. One such forum is the Government initiated web platform dialogvärdegrund.nu that is a tool to help organizations in Sweden to work with dialogue on democracy and human rights. The web platform is part of the initiative the government started in 2008 to strengthen the relation between democracy and human rights through dialogue as a method.[1]
Groups affected/interested
- Migrants
Key socio-economic / Institutional Areas
- Integration - social cohesion
External Url http://www.dialogvardegrund.nu/Om-dialogvardegrundnu/
See other countriesSee indicator history -
Are there migrants' consultative/advisory/representative bodies established by law?
No, there are no migrants' consultative/advisory/representative bodies established by law, although the government promotes the establishment of migrants' consultative/advisory/representative bodies through the funding of ethnic associations, which is provided by law.
Qualitative Info
Ethnic Associations working with language, culture, identity and participation in the community can apply for funding, but this is limited to national ethnic organizations (http://www.riksdagen.se/sv/Dokument-Lagar/Lagar/Svenskforfattningssamling/Forordning-200863-om-statsb_sfs-2008-63/), accessed 2012-03-10.
The Swedish National Board for Youth Affairs, which is a government agency, is assigned to allocate funds to ethnic associations (http://www.ungdomsstyrelsen.se).
There are Ethnic organisations established especially to function as consultative/advisory/representative bodies for migrants. The government consult with these migrant organisations and other migrant NGO's on a regular basis.
One good example is SIOS ( Samarbetsorgan för etniska organisationer i Sverige) which works for ethnic minorities that want to create a multicultural society in collaboration with all democratic forces in Sweden. At present, SIOS is constituted of 20 national associations, representing approximately 350 local associations and 75 000 members throughout Sweden (http://www.sios.org/) accessed 2012-03-10.
Another example is the Centre Against Racism which is an umbrella organisation with 80 ethnic member organisations and about 65 000 members. The Centre works with all discrimination grounds and promotes the right for all ethnic minorities, national minorities, migrants regardless of status to participate in society on equal terms terms without discrimination and racism. (http://www.centrummotrasism.nu).
Source:
Förordning (2008:63) om statsbidrag till organisationer bildade på etnisk grund, http://www.riksdagen.se/sv/Dokument-Lagar/Lagar/Svenskforfattningssamling/Forordning-200863-om-statsb_sfs-2008-63/ (accessed 2012-03-10).
Ungdomsstyrelsen, http://www.ungdomsstyrelsen.se/ (accessed 2012-03-10).
SIOS, The cooperation Group for Ethnic Associations in Sweden, http://www.sios.org/pdf_doc/sios_folder_eng_11.pdf (accessed 2012-03-10).The Centre Against Racism (Centrum mot rasism), http://www.centrummotrasism.nu (accessed 2012-03-10).Groups affected/interested
- Migrants
- Refugees
- Roma & Travelers
- Muslims
- Ethnic minorities
- Religious minorities
- Asylum seekers
- Africans/black people
Key socio-economic / Institutional Areas
- Political participation
- Integration - social cohesion
External Url http://www.riksdagen.se/sv/Dokument-Lagar/Lagar/Svenskforfattningssamling/Forordning-200863-om-statsb_sfs-2008-63/
See other countriesSee indicator history -
Public administration (including judiciary and executive) reflects the ethnic diversity of society?
No. Public administration (including judiciary and executive) does not reflect the ethnic diversity of society.
Groups affected/interested
- Migrants
- Majority
Key socio-economic / Institutional Areas
- Employment - labour market
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Is there automatic citizenship acquisition by birth for migrant children born in the country?
Only if the child has one parent who is Swedish citizen or has been adopted by a Swedish citizen.
Qualitative Info
According to the Act on Swedish Citizenship (Lagen om svenskt medborgarskap, 2001:82) § 1 MedbL (https://lagen.nu/2001:82) a child acquires Swedish citizenship at birth, if the mother is a Swedish citizen or the father is a Swedish citizen and married to the child's mother, or the father is deceased but at his death was a Swedish citizen and married to the child's mother. A child under twelve years who has been adopted by a Swedish citizen is at the time of adoption as a rule automatically Swedish citizen (1 a §).
The government plans to launch an inquiry to study Swedish citizenship in hopes of finding ways to boost its value and use it as a tool for integration. The Citizenship investigation will be completed April 1, 2013 (http://www.thelocal.se/38522/20120116/).
Source:
Medborgarskapsutredningen, SOU 2000:106, http://www.regeringen.se/content/1/c4/23/16/d168d2a7.pdf (accessed 2012-03-10).
The Local, http://www.thelocal.se/38522/20120116/ (accessed 2012-03-10).
The Act on Swedish Citizenship (Lagen om svenskt medborgarskap, 2001:82), https://lagen.nu/2001:82 (accessed 2012-03-10).
Groups affected/interested
- Migrants
Key socio-economic / Institutional Areas
- Political participation
External Url http://www.regeringen.se/content/1/c4/23/16/d168d2a7.pdf
See other countriesSee indicator history -
What is the general law provision for naturalisation?
Yes. There is a general law provision for naturalisation in Swedish Citizenship Act (Lag om svenskt medborgarskap) Swedish Code of Statutes: SFS 2001:82, with amendments up to and including SFS 2006:222.
Qualitative Info
Section 11
An alien can apply for and be granted Swedish citizenship (be naturalised) if he or she
1. has provided proof of his or her identity,
2. has reached the age of eighteen,
3. holds a permanent Swedish residence permit,
4. has been domiciled in Sweden
a) for the previous two years in the case of Danish, Finnish, Icelandic or Norwegian citizens,
b) for the previous four years in the case of a stateless person or a person who is considered to be a refugee under Chapter 4, Section 1 of the Aliens Act (2005:716),
c) for the previous five years for other aliens, and
5. has led and can be expected to lead a respectable life. Act (2005:722).
Section 12
If the requirements in Section 11 are not met, and unless paragraph 2 provides
otherwise, the applicant may still be naturalised if
1. the applicant has formerly held Swedish citizenship,
2. the applicant is married to or living in conditions resembling marriage with a Swedish
citizen, or
3. there are other special reasons for granting citizenship.
An applicant who cannot provide proof of identity in accordance with Section 11, subsection
1 may be naturalised only if he or she has been domiciled in Sweden for at least the
previous eight years and can give the authorities reason to believe that the stated identity is
correct.
Section 13
In a decision concerning naturalisation it shall also be decided whether the
applicant's unmarried children under the age of eighteen shall acquire Swedish citizenship.
The Act on Swedish Citizenship (Lag om svenskt medborgarskap) Swedish Code of Statutes: SFS 2001:82, with amendments up to and including SFS 2006:222. http://www.sweden.gov.se/content/1/c6/02/91/91/dcdd4a24.pdf (accessed 2012-03-10).
Groups affected/interested
- Migrants
Key socio-economic / Institutional Areas
- Political participation
- Integration - social cohesion
External Url http://www.sweden.gov.se/content/1/c6/02/91/91/dcdd4a24.pdf
See other countriesSee indicator history
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Migrants' political rights - right to vote to national/local elections
-
Policies On Integration - Cohesion
Integration is defined by the Government as; "Equal rights, responsibilities and opportunities for all regardless of ethnic or cultural background." The new strategy for integration is directed only on special measures for newly arrived immigrants’ establishment on the labour market. Migrants representation in all areas of society is limited. Public administration (including judiciary and executive) does not reflect the ethnic diversity of society. The Integration minister also deals with issues of discrimination and racism,. The policies in these areas have mainly focused on xenophobia and far-right extremism on the internet. Policies on tackling issues of structural and institutionalised racism and discrimination in all areas of society are still lacking.
-
Is there a formal national strategy on the integration of migrants/minorities?
Yes.
Qualitative Info
The Swedish Government Bill on the strategy for integration was adopted by the Parliament on 17 March 2010. The new law entered into force on 1 December 2010. The Bill “Newly arrived immigrants’ labour market establishment – Personal responsibility with professional support” (Nyanlända invandrares arbetsmarknadsetablering – egenansvar med professionellt stöd)[1] is one of the government’s most prioritised areas in the strategy for integration policies.
A new Act (2009:724) on National Minorities and National Minority Languages entered into force 1 January 2010. The law also entails changes in the Sami Parliament Act and the Social Services Act and is part of the government's national minority policy strategy adopted in June 2009.[2] The purpose of this strategy is, in part, to adopt an integrated approach to minority issues by clarifying the goals of minority policy, making the responsibilities of central and local authorities clear and introducing a system for follow-up.
[1] Bill 2009/10:60, bet. 2009/10: AU7, Riksdag Communication. 2009/10:208
[2] In June 2009, the Swedish Parliament adopted the Government Bill From Recognition to Empowerment – the Government’s Strategy for the National Minorities (Government Bill 2008/09:158, Report 2008/09:KU23, Parliamentary Communication 2008/09:272).
Groups affected/interested
- Migrants
- Refugees
- Roma & Travelers
- Muslims
- Ethnic minorities
- Africans/black people
- National minorities
Key socio-economic / Institutional Areas
- Integration - social cohesion
-
Is there a formal definition of integration
Yes
Qualitative Info
Integration is defined by the Government as; Equal rights, responsibilities and opportunities for all regardless of ethnic or cultural background (Government communication 2008), http://www.regeringen.se/sb/d/2279 (accessed 2012-03-10).
Groups affected/interested
- Migrants
Key socio-economic / Institutional Areas
- Integration - social cohesion
External Url http://www.regeringen.se/sb/d/2279
See other countriesSee indicator history -
To which groups does the integration strategy apply?
To migrants and to national minorities.
Qualitative Info
Newly arrived immigrants: The Swedish Government Bill on the strategy for integration was adopted by the Parliament on 17 March 2010. The new law entered into force on 1 December 2010. The Bill “Newly arrived immigrants’ labour market establishment – Personal responsibility with professional support” (Nyanlända invandrares arbetsmarknadsetablering – egenansvar med professionellt stöd)[1] is one of the government’s most prioritised areas in the strategy for integration policies.
National minorities: A new Act (2009:724) on National Minorities and National Minority Languages entered into force 1 January 2010. The law also entails changes in the Sami Parliament Act and the Social Services Act and is part of the government's national minority policy strategy adopted in June 2009.[2] The purpose of this strategy is, in part, to adopt an integrated approach to minority issues by clarifying the goals of minority policy, making the responsibilities of central and local authorities clear and introducing a system for follow-up.
[1] Bill 2009/10:60, bet. 2009/10: AU7, Riksdag Communication. 2009/10:208
[2] In June 2009, the Swedish Parliament adopted the Government Bill From Recognition to Empowerment – the Government’s Strategy for the National Minorities (Government Bill 2008/09:158, Report 2008/09:KU23, Parliamentary Communication 2008/09:272).
Groups affected/interested
- Migrants
- National minorities
Key socio-economic / Institutional Areas
- Integration - social cohesion
-
Are there formal policies and practises associated with this integration strategy?
Yes.
Qualitative Info
The Government presented a comprehensive integration strategy Egenmakt mot utanförskap – regeringens strategi för integration 2008-2010 in a special report in connection with the 2009 Budget Bill. New strategies for integration policy were presented focusing on policies to be implemented through general measures. In addition, special measures focusing on immigrants are only to take place for newly arrived immigrants who are in need of such measures. The focus of these special measures for newly arrived immigrants were proposed in the Government Bill 2009/10:60 (Nyanlända invandrares arbetsmarknadsetablering- egenansvar med professionellt stöd). The state took over the responsibilities for the establishment of newly arrived immigrants on the labour market from the municipalities.
As part of this strategy, special measures, such as the introduction of the new venture ‘establishment guides’ (Etableringslotsar) was created. These establishment guides are supposed to be a rout for newly arrived immigrants into the labour market. According to the proposal, immigrants can enlist the help of companies, or organizations to serve as guides to help them expand their networks and support their efforts to find employment. The Swedish National Employment Agency has been assigned the responsibility of implementing this new reform focusing on special measures for newly arrived immigrants. The reform is expected to cost around 920 million kronor (92 million euros).[1]
As part of continuing efforts to reduce social exclusion, the Government has appointed a special investigator (ToR 2011:18) with the task of reviewing the possibility of introducing a system of tax reductions for businesses in neighbourhoods with widespread segregation, the so-called ‘new start zones’ (Nystartszoner). This initiative is part of the Government’s on-going integration policies focused on the labour market. The investigation will be coordinated with the urban development process. The investigator is to report their findings by no later than 1 August 2012.[2]
[1] Government Bill 2009/10:60 (Nyanlända invandrares arbetsmarknadsetablering- egenansvar med professionellt stöd), http://www.regeringen.se/sb/d/108/a/135998 (accessed 2012-03-10).
[2] Budget Bill 2012, Integration, p. 29
Groups affected/interested
- Migrants
Key socio-economic / Institutional Areas
- Integration - social cohesion
External Url http://www.regeringen.se/sb/d/108/a/135998
See other countriesSee indicator history -
Is the integration strategy effective and, if so, what are the tangible results at a local, regional and national level?
One of the on-going debates is about the effectiveness of the Government’s new strategy focused on a work line as part of the ‘integration’ policies rather than policies targeting awareness or activities regarding anti-discrimination on the labour market.
Qualitative Info
The governments work line has been critiqued by the local employment agencies because of increasing the newly arrived refugees’ dependency on social assistance. Critical voices say that the new integration reform is a trap for the newly arrived persons. For those newly arrived refugees that for different reasons are unable to take part in the establishment plan with the employment agencies, the pressure is very high since they lose the possibility of financial compensation. This means that they are forced to live on social assistance while preparing to enter the establishment program. It is said that the pressure to work has been put before the well-being and security of the newly arrived refugees.[1]
[1] Sveriges Radio, Västernorrland, Arbetslinje blev socialbidrag, http://sverigesradio.se/sida/artikel.aspx?programid=109&artikel=4756439 (accessed 2012-03-10).
Groups affected/interested
- Migrants
- Refugees
Key socio-economic / Institutional Areas
- Employment - labour market
- Integration - social cohesion
External Url http://sverigesradio.se/sida/artikel.aspx?programid=109&artikel=4756439.
See other countriesSee indicator history -
Is there a formal national strategy on social and/or community cohesion?
No, there is no formal national strategy on social and/or community cohesion.
Qualitative Info
The lack of formal national strategy on social and/or community cohesion was critiqued in the government investigation called " Integrations black book, Agenda for Equality and Social Cohesion" (http://www.regeringen.se/content/1/c6/06/79/01/fb2aa315.pdf).
Source:
Slutbetänkande av Utredningen om makt, integration och strukturell diskriminering, SOU 2006:79
http://www.regeringen.se/content/1/c6/06/79/01/fb2aa315.pdf (accessed 2012-03-10).
Groups affected/interested
- Migrants
Key socio-economic / Institutional Areas
- Integration - social cohesion
External Url http://www.regeringen.se/content/1/c6/06/79/01/fb2aa315.pdf
See other countriesSee indicator history -
Is there a clear definition of social/community cohesion?
No, there is not a clear definition of social/community cohesion.
Qualitative Info
The lack of a clear definition of social/community cohesion was critiqued in the government investigation called " Integrations black book, Agenda for Equality and Social Cohesion" (http://www.regeringen.se/content/1/c6/06/79/01/fb2aa315.pdf).
Source:
Slutbetänkande av Utredningen om makt, integration och strukturell diskriminering, SOU 2006:79
http://www.regeringen.se/content/1/c6/06/79/01/fb2aa315.pdf (accessed 2012-03-10).
Groups affected/interested
- Migrants
Key socio-economic / Institutional Areas
- Integration - social cohesion
External Url http://www.regeringen.se/content/1/c6/06/79/01/fb2aa315.pdf
See other countriesSee indicator history -
Does the social cohesion strategy apply to all migrant/minority groups?
No, a social cohesion strategy that applies to all migrant/minority groups is not in place.
Qualitative Info
The lack of a social cohesion strategy that applies to all migrant/minority groups was critiqued in the government investigation called " Integrations black book, Agenda for Equality and Social Cohesion" (http://www.regeringen.se/content/1/c6/06/79/01/fb2aa315.pdf).
Source:
Slutbetänkande av Utredningen om makt, integration och strukturell diskriminering, SOU 2006:79
http://www.regeringen.se/content/1/c6/06/79/01/fb2aa315.pdf (accessed 2012-03-10).
Groups affected/interested
- Migrants
Key socio-economic / Institutional Areas
- Integration - social cohesion
External Url http://www.regeringen.se/content/1/c6/06/79/01/fb2aa315.pdf
See other countriesSee indicator history -
Is/are social/community cohesion strategies effective and producing results?
No, there are no social/community cohesion strategies that are effective and producing results.
Qualitative Info
The lack of social/community cohesion strategies that are effective and producing results was critiqued in the government investigation called " Integrations black book, Agenda for Equality and Social Cohesion" (http://www.regeringen.se/content/1/c6/06/79/01/fb2aa315.pdf).
Source:
Slutbetänkande av Utredningen om makt, integration och strukturell diskriminering, SOU 2006:79
http://www.regeringen.se/content/1/c6/06/79/01/fb2aa315.pdf (accessed 2012-03-10).
Groups affected/interested
- Migrants
Key socio-economic / Institutional Areas
- Integration - social cohesion
External Url http://www.regeringen.se/content/1/c6/06/79/01/fb2aa315.pdf
See other countriesSee indicator history -
If there is a national strategy covering both integration and cohesion? Are the two key elements of the strategy joined up formally?
No. There is not a national strategy covering both integration and cohesion. The two key elements of the strategy are not joined up formally, e.g. through the idea of an integrated and cohesive society.
Qualitative Info
The lack of a national strategy covering both integration and cohesion was critiqued in the government investigation called " Integrations black book, Agenda for Equality and Social Cohesion" (http://www.regeringen.se/content/1/c6/06/79/01/fb2aa315.pdf).
Source:
Slutbetänkande av Utredningen om makt, integration och strukturell diskriminering, SOU 2006:79
http://www.regeringen.se/content/1/c6/06/79/01/fb2aa315.pdf (accessed 2012-03-10).
Groups affected/interested
- Migrants
Key socio-economic / Institutional Areas
- Integration - social cohesion
External Url http://www.regeringen.se/content/1/c6/06/79/01/fb2aa315.pdf
See other countriesSee indicator history
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Is there a formal national strategy on the integration of migrants/minorities?
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Public Life, Culture, Sport & Media
The representation of journalists with a foreign background is limited, only 3 % of the total media workers in Sweden. Those who manage to work as journalists are mainly found among a segment of media workers with very specific features. They are relatively young, born in Sweden and immigrated at an early age, have a Swedish school and college education and speaks flawless Swedish. In sports, the swedish media has reported on several incidents of racism, hate speech and racial violence against black football and ice-hockey players. Discrimination and social exclusion of migrants in sports is also reported, especially towards muslim women, dening them access to sport facilities.
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Is self-identification of individuals/groups a criterion for recognition and respect of minority or ethnic cultural linguistic religious groups' rights by the state/government?
Yes, self-identification of individuals/groups is a criterion for recognition and respect of minority or ethnic cultural linguistic religious groups' rights by the state/government. There are five recognised minority groups in Sweden.
Qualitative Info
The Instrument of goverment (Regeringsformen) states that:
Paragraph 5 of Article 2 declares:
“Public institutions shall work to ensure that all persons shall be able to achieve participation and equality in society and that children’s rights are respected. The public institutions shall counteract discrimination against persons on the grounds of sex, skin colour, national or ethnic origin, language or religious affiliation, disability, sexual orientation, age or other circumstance that relates to the individual as a person.”
In Article 12 we find a rule that states that legislation entailing discrimination of individuals belonging to minorities as to ethnic origin skin colour or other similar circumstances and sexual orientation is prohibited. Apparently, this provision does not entail religion, but insofar ethnicity involves worship it is probably also included in the prohibition against discrimination. The prohibition is also valid for non-citizens according to Chapter 2 Section 25 were the exceptions where restrictions can be made for non citizens are listed.
Restrictions on freedom of religion can be restricted for non citizens Chapter 2 Section 25 point 1.
As regards indigenous minorities such as the Sami and the Roma, there are special rights and supportive measures as regard the use of their native language as well as access to media and as regards the Sami also on land rights and reindeer management. From 2011 the Sami people have their reindeer management rights recognised in the constitution.
Source:
Instrument of goverment, http://www.notisum.se/rnp/sls/lag/19740152.HTM (Accessed 2012-03-10).
Groups affected/interested
- Migrants
- Muslims
- Ethnic minorities
- Religious minorities
- Linguistic minorities
- Africans/black people
Type (R/D)
- Islamophobia
- Afrophobia
- Arabophobia
- Religious intolerance
- Xenophobia
Key socio-economic / Institutional Areas
- Anti-discrimination
- Anti-racism
- Daily life
External Url http://www.notisum.se/rnp/sls/lag/19740152.HTM
See other countriesSee indicator history -
Association: are there restrictions of the freedom of peaceful assembly, and freedom of association for migrants
No, there is no evidence or data as evidence that there are restrictions of the freedom of peaceful assembly, and freedom of association for migrants.
Groups affected/interested
- Migrants
Key socio-economic / Institutional Areas
- Political participation
-
Association: are there restrictions of the of the freedom of peaceful assembly, and freedom of association for minorities
No.
Qualitative Info
There are no restrictions of the freedom of peaceful assembly, and freedom of association for minorities. Restrictions on freedom of assembly can be provided if the meeting is aimed at planning a crime, rioting or breach of local regulations. In Sweden the legislation on freedom of assembly is regulated in the Constitution Act and the Public Order Act (1993:1617). The Public Order Act regulates, inter alia, permit requirements and / or notification of a public meeting and the police the right to suspend, disband and banning public gatherings.
Source:
Public Order Act (1993:1617),http://http://www.notisum.se/rnp/sls/lag/19931617.htm (accessed 2012-03-10).
Constitution Act (http://www.notisum.se/rnp/sls/lag/19740152.HTM) accessed 2012-03-10
Groups affected/interested
- National minorities
Key socio-economic / Institutional Areas
- Daily life
External Url http://http://www.notisum.se/rnp/sls/lag/19931617.htm
See other countriesSee indicator history -
Religion: Persons belonging to minorities face legal and practical obstacles in exercising or manifesting their religion or belief?
Yes, there is evidence that persons belonging to minorities do not fully enjoy the right to manifest their religion or belief and to establish religious institutions, organisations and associations.
Qualitative Info
Regarding Muslim migrants, the anti-Islam and anti-Immigrant Nationalist political party, the Sweden Democrats, is constantly urging the municipalities to deny Muslims the right to build Mosques. This is part of their political agenda now that they have seats in the Swedish Parliament through the general elections in September 2010.[1]
One incident that exemplifies the aggression targeted toward Muslims and Muslim symbols in Sweden is when the Mosque of the Islamic Centre in Malmö was exposed to gun shots on 31 December 2009. A number of people were in the room and one person received minor injuries from what the police characterized as attempted murder. Several Mosques have previously been subjected to arson and other forms of xenophobic crimes and vandalism.[2]
There is evidence that religious minorities encounter structural difficulties when practicing their religion. One such area is the singling out of religious independent schools as not promoting democratic values. Although there have been cases of reported misconduct, the recent public debate has gone as far as demanding, on occasion, that the schools should be banned.[3]
A case that received a lot of media attention during 2010 concerns a Muslim man who refused to shake hands with a female chief executive during an interview for an internship (The Equality Ombudsman, Case OMED 2007/761). Instead he greeted by placing his hand towards his chest, stating that it is against his religious belief to touch a person of the opposite sex outside the family. The Swedish Employment Service [Arbetsförmedling] decided to suspend his economical benefits arguing that he had contributed to being denied the internship. The Equality Ombudsman sued the Employment Service for discrimination on the grounds of religion. The Stockholm District Court judged the Swedish Employment Office to pay 60 000 SEK (6000 Euros) in compensation to the man.[4]
[3] The local http://www.thelocal.se/29452/20101006/ (Accessed 2012-03-10)
[4] The Equality Ombudsman Case OMED 2007/761
http://www.do.se/sv/Press/Pressmeddelanden/AF-diskriminerade-mannen-som-inte-ville-skaka-hand-med-kvinnlig-chef/ (Accessed 2012-03-10)
Groups affected/interested
- Refugees
- Muslims
- Ethnic minorities
- Religious minorities
- Asylum seekers
- Africans/black people
Type (R/D)
- Anti-migrant/xenophobia
- Islamophobia
- Afrophobia
Key socio-economic / Institutional Areas
- Anti-discrimination
- Anti-racism
- Integration - social cohesion
- Religion
External Url www.do.se
See other countriesSee indicator history -
Media: Are there positive measures for promoting or restrictions for Migrant and minority media?
Yes.
Qualitative Info
In Sweden, media in national minority languages do exist. Swedish Television and Swedish Radio, Sveriges Utbildningsradio AB (Swedish Educational Broadcasting Company), comprise the main core of Sweden’s public service, i.e. radio and television serving the general public. Sweden’s public service broadcasting encompasses certain commendable practices in terms of minority language media. These include extensive radio broadcasting in Sami and Finnish languages.[1]
[1] Utbildningsradion, http://www.ur.se/Ung/Amnen/Sprak/Nationella-minoritetssprak/(Accessed 2012-03-10 )
Groups affected/interested
- Migrants
- National minorities
Key socio-economic / Institutional Areas
- Media
External Url http://www.ur.se/Ung/Amnen/Sprak/Nationella-minoritetssprak/
See other countriesSee indicator history -
Media: Are there positive measures for promoting or restrictions for minority and lesser used language in the media?
Yes.
Qualitative Info
The public service broadcasting provides informational, educational, cultural and entertainment programming in order to meet also the needs of minorities. The Swedish Educational Broadcasting Company (Utbildningsradion, UR) is responsible to produce educational and general knowledge programmes for pre-schools, primary and secondary schools and sixth form colleges or high schools. This is the only company in Sweden operating in multimedia – with production of television and radio programmes, websites, books and other publishing products. An important feature of UR is the production of programmes for ethnic minorities.
One of the good practices that encompass UR’s work is the provision of programs for children and youth from national minority groups and immigrant backgrounds. Besides programs in the national minority languages, they also send programs in Arabic, Somali, Turkish and south Kurdish.
The UR has also provided the capacity building for national minority languages by making accessible a website where the public can acquire some skills in the national minority languages. On the website, there is also general information about the national minorities.[1]
[1] Utbildningsradion (UR), http://www.ur.se/Ung/Amnen/Sprak/Nationella-minoritetssprak/(Accessed 2012-03-10)
Groups affected/interested
- Migrants
- National minorities
Key socio-economic / Institutional Areas
- Media
- Integration - social cohesion
- Daily life
External Url http://www.ur.se/Ung/Amnen/Sprak/Nationella-minoritetssprak/
See other countriesSee indicator history -
Media: Is there a visible presence (or absence) of members of target groups as media professionals?
Yes.
Data 3 percent of the journalists had a foreign background in 2000.Qualitative Info
There is relatively little comprehensive knowledge about the media and journalists with a foreign origin. A study from 2000 shows that journalists with a migrant background particularly those with non-European background, are largely underrepresented in the majority of media workers. The study is based on a large survey ”Journalist 2000” which showed that about 3 % (or about 500) of the journalists had a foreign background that year. Of those, 1 % grew up in a Nordic country, 1 % in other European countries, and 1 % in outside Europe (Djerf-Pierre &Levin 2005: 172; Djerf-Pierre et al, 2001: 72; Weibull 2001: 15).
Although figures are not strictly comparable, one can not ignore the fact that the difference between 3 and 11.3 %, which represented the proportion of foreign born in Sweden of the total population in 2000 (see Statistical Yearbook of Sweden 2004: 95 ) is large.
Compared to their colleagues with Swedish / Nordic background, journalists with a foreign background were overrepresented in the Stockholm region, especially at Swedish Radio and Swedish Televison, while they are under-represented in the provincial press (Djerf-Pierre, and Levin, 2005: 172-3). [1]
The representation of foreign-born journalists is mainly found among a segment of media workers with very specific features. They are relatively young, born in Sweden and immigrated at an early age, have a Swedish school and college education and speaks flawless Swedish.[2]
In a study by media researcher Håkan Hvitfelt (1998), he shows that Islam in Swedish television news is reported as a particularly violent religion. 85 % of all news items related to Islam and Muslims is wholly or partly about violence. War, terrorism are common themes. Although reports about violence are prominent in television news, it normally accounts for "only" one in four news reports about violence.[3]
Ylva Brune (2000) describes how young women with origins in Muslim countries are interviewed and portrayed primarily in two contexts. As victims of oppression and violence in a relentless patriarchal culture that requires a woman's virginity. And as victims of migration for cultural conflict and cultural collision, where they fall "between two cultures."[4]
In the report ”Where did our right’s go? Experiences of racism and discrimination among Somalis in Sweden, published by the Centre Against Racism (Kalonaityte, Kawesa, Richards & Gasimelseed, 2011), the authors describe how Somalis in Sweden are victimized in the media. [5]
In a series of articles published in Göteborgs Posten, one of the articles begins by describing the situation for Somalis in Sweden as: "The Swedish Welfare system and the closed labor market contributes to the disaster, which can be translated into serious crime, widespread abuse, benefit fraud, poor school grades, broken families and sky-high unemployment."[6]
This description is illustrative of the negative stereotypical image of Somalis that the majority media communicates to the public.
[1] Mediernas vi och dom - Mediernas betydelse för den strukturella diskrimineringen
(SOU 2006:21), p. 34, http://www.regeringen.se/sb/d/6155/a/58634 (accessed 2012-03-12)
[2] Mediernas vi och dom - Mediernas betydelse för den strukturella diskrimineringen
(SOU 2006:21), p. 51, http://www.regeringen.se/sb/d/6155/a/58634(accessed 2012-03-12)
[3] Stereotyper i förvandling, Svensk nyhetsjournalistik om invandrare och flyktingar, Ylva Brune (2000), Utrikesdepartementet, Enheten för Mellanöstern och Nordafrika, MENA-projektet, p. 21, http://www.regeringen.se/content/1/c6/01/20/34/7cb1cbcd.pdf(accessed 2012-03-12)
[4] Stereotyper i förvandling, Svensk nyhetsjournalistik om invandrare och flyktingar, Ylva Brune (2000), Utrikesdepartementet, Enheten för Mellanöstern och Nordafrika, MENA-projektet, p. 30, http://www.regeringen.se/content/1/c6/01/20/34/7cb1cbcd.pdf (accessed 2012-03-12)
[5] The Centre against racism, ”Where did our right’s go?” (Vart tog rättigheterna vägen? En kartläggning av upplevelser av diskriminering och rasism bland personer med somalisk bakgrund i Sverige, 2011). The report is a survey of experiences of discrimination and racism among people with a Somali background in Sweden. The report is written by Victoria Kawesa, Viktorija Kalonaityte, Åse Richards and Abdalla Gasimelseed, http://www.centrummotrasism.nu/ (accessed 2012-03-12)
[6] Göteborg Somalier- ett folk i kris, http://www.gp.se/nyheter/goteborg/1.115816-28-10-07-goteborgs-somalier-ett-folk-i-kris(accessed 2012-03-12)
Groups affected/interested
- Migrants
- Muslims
- Ethnic minorities
- Religious minorities
- Africans/black people
Type (R/D)
- Anti-migrant/xenophobia
- Islamophobia
- Afrophobia
- Arabophobia
Key socio-economic / Institutional Areas
- Media
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Sport: Effective participation of migrants in sport
Yes. Migrants in Sweden face legal and practical obstacles in participating in sport. Problems with Immigration status, national athletes min quotas are frequently encountered limitations/obstacles.
Qualitative Info
From December 15, 2008 new rules were implemented concerning working conditions. Citizens in countries outside the European Union (EU) or that are not covered of the agreement about European economic cooperation (European Economic Area) and that are not citizens of Switzerland must have working permit to live and work in Sweden.
Working permit is granted by the Swedish Migration Board and they examine ones right to permanent stay in Sweden. The Swedish Sports Confederation is referral authority for the cases that concern sports. When work permit is requested, these conditions must be fulfilled to get granted a work permit:
· One of both parties signed contracts must be enclosed in the application
· One of the contracts must show that the salary is lowest 14 300 SEK per month
· The insurance protection is needed
The Swedish Migration Board can grant permanent stay after four to five years residence in the country. Swedish citizenship can be granted if one has had residence in Sweden for at least five years. Except from that rule is very exceptional. To represent Sweden on national team level, Swedish citizenship is required.
Source: Riksidrottsförbundet, http://www.rf.se/ (accessed 2012-03-10).
Groups affected/interested
- Migrants
Key socio-economic / Institutional Areas
- Sport
External Url http://www.rf.se/
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Sport: Effective participation of minorities in sport
Minorities in Sweden do not face legal problems participating in sports. But they encounter practical obstacles in participating in sports.
Qualitative Info
The Office for the Ombudsman against discrimination (DO) works with Roma rights. When asked about the situation for Roma in sports, the Roma expert explained that the question of the Roma people’s participation in different sporting events should be viewed with their disadvantaged position in the Swedish society. It is obviously a result of the long lasting and pervasive discrimination that the Roma have lived with and the difficulty to break out of these long established structures and mindsets that the Roma people come in contact with in majority societies, which also exists in the context of participation in different sporting activities.The representative from DO further explained that the Roma people are generally not included in different Swedish associations, where many of the sports activities take place. As a result of that, very few Roma participate in the sport activities that the majority society has to offer. The question of Roma participation in the sports world is still an everlasting challenge for the Swedish associations.
Source: Email correspondence with Heidi Pikkarainen, Roma expert at the Office of Ombudsman against discrimination (2009-03-10).
Groups affected/interested
- Roma & Travelers
- Ethnic minorities
- Africans/black people
- National minorities
Key socio-economic / Institutional Areas
- Sport
- Anti-discrimination
- Integration - social cohesion
- Daily life
External Url www.do.se
See other countriesSee indicator history
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Is self-identification of individuals/groups a criterion for recognition and respect of minority or ethnic cultural linguistic religious groups' rights by the state/government?