Integration or Segregation? Immigrant Populations Facing the Labour Market in Sweden

Abstract

This article discusses the labour market situation for different categories of immigrant populations and young people of immigrant origin in Sweden, pointing to the failure of integration policies. The article argues that, as in other labour-importing countries, it is Sweden's economic needs and structural labour market conditions that are decisive for their integration, or alternatively segregation, or discrimination in the labour market and in working life. It challenges the argument which points to cultural factors intrinsic to ethnic minorities themselves as a major obstacle to their successful integration in the labour market. Instead, it shows the operation of discriminatory mechanisms which affect persons of non-Swedish origin, particularly in a tight labour market situation.