Tag: Labor Market Inclusion

A recent article from the Directorate-General for Migration and Home Affairs highlights several studies on migrants’ social norms and integration. Among them is a FREE Network policy brief by Maria Perrotta Berlin, Anna Anisimova, and Kata Fredheim, offering insights into Sweden’s approach to receiving and integrating displaced Ukrainians.

In their brief, the authors examine how Sweden’s implementation of the EU Temporary Protection Directive has created uncertainty for displaced Ukrainians. This uncertainty has hindered both their integration and participation in the labor market.

While Sweden shows strong political and public support for Ukraine, limited rights and unclear long-term status pose challenges. Refugees face fewer benefits and opportunities than in neighboring Nordic countries or Poland, making Sweden a less attractive destination.

Many Ukrainians arriving in Sweden are highly educated and employable. Yet, barriers such as limited access to language training, housing, and stable residence permits slow their economic inclusion. Civil society and private sector initiatives, including mentorship and job-matching programs, have helped fill some gaps. However, these efforts remain insufficient without stronger institutional support.

To read the full policy brief on migrant integration in Sweden, visit the FREE Network website. For more expert analysis from SITE, explore the SITE website.