Panel discussion about criminal background checks, mandatory reporting and Swedish migration policy.
Welcome to a panel discussion at Gothenburg City Library. The evening begins with short presentations, followed by an in-depth discussion of the proposals on character assessments and reporting obligations. What do these proposals say about the broader development of Swedish migration policy, the values shaping it today, and the potential consequences of the legislative proposals?
The government has presented proposals for expanded character assessments in migration cases and for a reporting obligation for public employees in certain authorities when they encounter individuals without the right to stay in Sweden. The proposals aim to strengthen compliance with migration legislation—but have also sparked extensive debate about professional ethics, legal certainty, and trust in public institutions.
How has the Swedish system of character assessment developed historically and in comparison with other countries? What value-laden ideas do we see regarding who deserves protection or residence permits, and how are these expressed in different laws and regulations? What do the proposals mean in practice? How might they affect authorities, public employees, and people impacted by migration policy?
Ursula Berge, Head of Public Policy at the Swedish Association of Graduate Professionals (SSR). She leads the organisation’s focus area “An Open and Democratic Sweden,” is responsible for its work on migration and labour market issues, among others, and monitors the implementation of the Tidö Agreement.
Andreas Asplén Lundstedt, Assistant Professor in Public Administration at the University of Gothenburg. His research focuses on the history, techniques, and institutions of state migration control.
Andrea Spehar, Associate Professor of Political Science and Director of the Centre for European Research (CERGU) at the University of Gothenburg. Her research focuses on policy development and the implementation of migration policy.
Gabriella Elgenius, Professor of Sociology and Director of the Centre on Global Migration (CGM) at the University of Gothenburg.
May 12
The boundaries of the welfare state – deportation policy, “ghetto laws,” and conditional rights
May 19
Migration in media and politics: language, rhetoric, and public opinion
May 20
Integration in practice: the role of civil society and social enterprises
More seminar will be added in the fall.
In the 2026 election year, issues of migration and integration are high on the political agenda. At the same time, public debate is marked by strong polarisation. But what does research say?
Throughout the year, the Centre on Global Migration (CGM)nat the University of Gothenburg organizes a seminar series in which researchers and practitioners offer different perspectives on one of the most debated topics of our time. Participants will gain insight into current research findings and the lessons that can be drawn from practices within contested areas of Swedish migration policy. The aim is to create a meeting place where academic knowledge, professional experience, and societal perspectives can come together.
The seminar series includes a range of formats—lectures, panel discussions, and seminars—and is aimed at the general public, students, researchers, practitioners, and policymakers.
By creating a space for dialogue between research, practice, and public debate, the seminar series seeks to contribute to a knowledge-based conversation on migration and integration in Sweden during the 2026 election year.