Local Migration and Integration Policy in Sweden: Processes and Outcomes

This book examines local migration policy in Sweden in light of the European migrant crisis. The novel approach of this volume covers both local governments’ policies on admission of immigrants and their efforts for enhancing social integration. The focus is on the division of responsibilities between political levels, examined through theories encompassing both governance structures and output and outcomes of policy. Sweden is a rare example where migration policy has undergone massive changes in the last decade. During the crisis, the country received some of the largest flows of immigrants in relation to its population compared with other European countries. Drawing from statistical material, case studies and a rich body of interviews, this innovative work provides a valuable resource that aspires to investigate the significance of the local level of government in migration policy. The objective is to reach general conclusions that go beyond the realms of the empiricalfocus.

Gustav Lidén is Associate Professor of Political Science at Mid Sweden University, Sweden. His research interests cover the local political arena in general and migration policy in particular. Among his recent publications, the following journals can be noticed: Policy Studies, Scandinavian PoliticalStudies, and Journal of Refugee Studies.

Jon Nyhlén is Senior Lecturer of Political Science at Stockholm University, Sweden. His research focuses on local politics, public Administration as well as governing and policy issues. He has published his research in: Scandinavian Journal of Public Administration, Journal of Refugee Studies, and Migration and Development.