I saw this banner hanging outside a business earlier tonight in Sweden. Like in the USA, immigration/migration is a debates political issue. On one side, proponents of political asylum and liberals are suggesting that it is in Sweden’s interest to take in refugees of of foreign conflicts. Out of the Nordic countries, Sweden allows more of these migrants through it’s borders. While most Nordic countries cap their influx of immigrants at around 25,000 people, approximately 100,000 people enter this way to start a new life in Sweden. These families are far away from their war torn/poverty ridden countries and able to take advantage of the immense public welfare system in Sweden.

On the other hand, some commentators have suggested this is practice has gone to far. These commentators are more likely to express criticisms of immigrants for being a public burden and not undertaking lessons in Swedish history or culture. It is easy to understand such claims as many immigrants settle into their own communities, largely removed from the dominant majority. As a result, these migrants may not feel strongly compelled to learn more about the local culture or language.

Regardless, this is an interesting issue worthy of examination. I am reminded that migration of people - whether it be to the USA or elsewhere - is met with mixed opinion.

-August 7th 2014