Indicator history

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] In 2010, about 22 of the 26 municipalities in Stockholm county indicated that they had housing shortage and difficulties meeting the housing needs for refugees. About one third of the Migration Board answered they had almost never offered housing to asylum seekers with special medical needs.[2] It should be noted that refugees living in a rented apartment do not always have a first owner contract (förstahandskontrakt).[3]

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. People with incomes below the relative poverty line (60percent of median income) were overrepresented in these neighborhoods.  [4]

Immigrant children: One of the most debated issues surrounding housing is the increasing number of immigrant children living in poor neighbourhoods. Save the Children publishes annual reports about child poverty, and in the eighth report 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. [5]

The Children’s Ombudsman has reported concern about the increased evictions of families with children. During the first half of 2011 about 358 children were affected by eviction. This is an increase of 9% - or 30 children compared to the same period last year, according to new statistics from the Swedish Enforcement Authority (Kronofogden). The Children’s Ombudsman has therefore called ten municipalities to discuss how prevention efforts can be strengthened. [6]

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 (Equality Ombudsman, http://www.do.se).