Migration and Integration in Swedish Politics – What Does Research Show?

Throughout the year, researchers will invite audiences to discussions on some of the most pressing and debated issues in Swedish migration policy. The series aims to contribute to a more knowledge-based public conversation during the 2026 election year by offering academic perspectives.

“The ambition is to create a platform where research and conversations can help nuance the debate,” say the organisers.

The seminar series includes lectures, panel discussions and seminars, and is aimed at a broad audience: the general public, students, researchers, practitioners and policymakers.

The spring programme addresses key themes such as how migration policy has evolved over time, the potential consequences of proposed legislation, and how boundaries of rights and belonging are shaped within the welfare state. Other topics include how migration is represented in media and politics, and how language, rhetoric and public opinion influence societal debate. The series also highlights how integration is realised in practice, for example through the work of civil society and local initiatives.

The autumn programme will explore themes such as language and citizenship, youth identity formation, xenophobia, diversity in public discourse and everyday life, and the relationship between migration and climate change.

Several events are organised in collaboration with the Gothenburg City Library.

Programme Spring 2026:

• 7 May, 18:00–19:30, Gothenburg City Library
  Character assessments and reporting obligations – a paradigm shift in Swedish politics?
• 12 May, 12:00–13:00, Gothenburg City Library
  The boundaries of the welfare state – deportation policy, “ghetto laws,” and conditional rights
• 19 May, 18:00–19:30, Gothenburg City Library
  Migration in media and politics: language, rhetoric and public opinion
• 20 May, 12:00–13:00, Gothenburg City Library
  Integration in practice – the role of civil society and social enterprises

Programme Autumn 2026:  

• 7 september, kl. 18.00-19.30, Gothenburg City Library: Seminar and panel discussion at Gothenburg City Library on suburban communities as political scapegoats in the public debate?
• 9 October, 10:00–12:00, Department of Education and Special Education, University of Gothenburg: Seminar at the Department of Education and Special Education on the politics of language testing and critical perspectives on assessment and language education for migrants
• 13 October, 18:00-19:00, Gothenburg City: Seminar and panel discussion at Gothenburg City Library on the ongoing crisis at Europe’s borders: silenced voices and forbidden places.
• 14 October, 12:00–13:00, Gothenburg City Library: Seminar and panel discussion at Gothenburg City Library on Language Introduction, Language Testing, and the Conditions for Participation.
• 24 November, 18:00–19:30, Gothenburg City Library: Seminar and panel discussion at Gothenburg City Library on “integration panic” and diversity in everyday life.