Advertisement

Sweden to introduce new civics classes for asylum seekers

TT/The Local
TT/The Local - [email protected]
Sweden to introduce new civics classes for asylum seekers
A Swedish for Immigrants class north of Stockholm. Photo: Fredrik Sandberg/TT

Sweden is planning to introduce a compulsory civics introduction programme for asylum seekers, as part of a deal between the government and two of its parliamentary partners.

Advertisement

The proposal is part of a 73-point deal between the Social Democrat-Green coalition and the Centre and Liberal opposition parties. The deal helped pave the way for the former to remain in government following political deadlock in the wake of the 2018 election, and touches on everything from migration to education.

The parties have agreed to task the Migration Agency with working out the exact details for how the tuition would work, but it would likely be a two to three day course for someone who has just arrived in the country. The sessions would be compulsory for adult asylum seekers, but 15-18-year-olds are also to take part.

"They will get education about life in Sweden, about education, laws, democracy, norms and values. Something that is incredibly important for everyone," Liberal party leader Nyamko Sabuni told the TT news agency on Tuesday.

Advertisement

Someone who does not take part should, according to Sabuni, for example lose their right to daily benefits. But the Migration Agency is to take a closer look at exactly what form such sanctions could take.

Civics tuition is today part of Swedish for Immigrants (SFI) classes for residents in the country. But the initial obligatory introduction is intended to be held in the person's own language.

"Receiving this important information early in the process – in a language you master – creates better foundations for getting further established in society," said Sabuni.

The Migration Agency is expected to put forward a proposal by August 3rd, after which the plan is to introduce the scheme next year.

More

Join the conversation in our comments section below. Share your own views and experience and if you have a question or suggestion for our journalists then email us at [email protected].
Please keep comments civil, constructive and on topic – and make sure to read our terms of use before getting involved.

Please log in to leave a comment.

[email protected] 2020/04/22 19:24
It is really good to learn many things.

See Also