Sweden is considering a surprising new plan that might let people get paid to leave the country. This idea comes from a recent government report that suggests expanding a program already in place. Right now, this program offers money to refugees and migrants who agree to return to their home countries. They get a one-time payment of about $960 for each adult and $480 for each child, plus their travel costs covered.
But the new proposal suggests something even more dramatic. It might extend this program to not just people with temporary or permanent residence permits but also to people who have become naturalized Swedish citizens and their families. Essentially, it could mean that even people who have fully integrated into Swedish society could be offered money to leave.
The report also suggests that if people take the money but don’t actually leave, they might have to pay it back. However, it has been recommended not to increase the amount of money offered because that might give the wrong impression to other migrants, making them feel less welcome in Sweden.
Sweden’s immigration situation has been challenging. Over the last two decades, the number of foreign-born residents has more than doubled, reaching over 2.15 million people. After a big wave of immigrants in 2015, Sweden tightened its immigration rules, making them some of the strictest in Europe. In fact, last year saw a historic first: more people left Sweden than arrived.
Migration Minister Maria Malmer Stenergard mentioned that while the current repatriation program hasn’t been very successful, the proposed changes could help those who are struggling to integrate into Swedish society. The idea is that giving people a chance to return to their home countries might help them build a better life elsewhere and improve the overall integration process in Sweden.
The proposal is still being reviewed, and its impact remains to be seen. If it moves forward, Sweden will be making a bold move in its immigration policy, and it might just start a trend that other countries could follow.
