FACULTY OF CULTURE AND SOCIETY | Panel Discussion
Migration Seminar: Debating Swedish citizenship: Towards a paradigm change?

Thursday 13 March, 13:15 - 15:00
Niagara, 9th floor, Nordenskiöldsgatan 1, or zoom 13
Mar

Panel:

Debating Swedish Citizenship: Towards a Paradigm Change?

Profile:

Anna Tegunimataka, Senior lecturer, Head of the Department of Economic History, Lund University
Mikael Spång, Professor, Department of global political studies, Malmö
Christian Fernández, Associate Professor, Department of global political studies, Malmö University

Abstract:

In recent years, the term “upgrading citizenship” has gained tremendous traction in Swedish politics. Under this banner, a host of measures have been proposed that will make it more difficult for immigrants to become citizens: civic knowledge and language tests, longer residence time, stricter requirements on economic self-sufficiency and good behavior, and so on. Citizenship is not a right, it is precious privilege that has to be earned, members of government have declared time and time again. The proposed changes suggest a paradigmatic shift in the Swedish naturalization policy, effectively bringing one of the most liberal and open citizenship regimes in the Global North-West into the European mainstream of tougher demands.

In this seminar, a panel of three researchers discuss the reasons, meaning and consequences of the current developments in Swedish citizenship policy. Based on their varying expertise and perspectives, each panelist will make an opening remark, followed by an exchange between the three of them, and in turn followed by a Q&A session with the floor.

Attendance:

This is a hybrid seminar, you are welcome to connect via Zoom or join us at MIM seminar room, floor 9, Niagara, Nordenskiöldsgatan 1. To attend on campus, please gather by the reception area at 13.05.