Almost $40,000 to go: European country's anti-migration gamble during election campaign...

Sweden has launched an economic incentive policy for migrants with residence permits born outside the EU to leave the country, offering up to $37,000 per person. This measure is part of a broader anti-migration agenda seeking to reduce immigration and crime.

## A Tempting Offer to Go Home

The Swedish government has launched a surprising economic initiative: it offers up to **350,000 Swedish kronor**, which is equivalent to about **$37,000**, to individuals with residency permits born outside the European Union who decide to abandon the country. This measure, implemented since early **2024**, is part of the current Executive's electoral promise to reduce both immigration and crime rates. The campaign, driven by the Sweden Democrats party, has even used advertisements in public transport in areas with a high migrant presence, targeting specific communities, such as the Somali community, inviting them to return to their places of origin.

## Beyond the Checkbook: Tightening Migration Policy

This monetary offer is not an isolated event. It adds to a series of increasingly restrictive policies that contrast with Sweden's previous image as one of Europe's most guarantor countries regarding asylum and migration. Since **2022**, the government has been consolidating an anti-migration agenda. Measures adopted include the elimination of permanent residency permits for asylum seekers. Furthermore, a citizenship examination has been introduced that tests applicants' knowledge of Swedish history, society, and the democratic system.

## Results and Expectations

To date, the response to the economic incentive offer has been modest, with only **171 individuals** accepting the program. However, the proponents of the measure, the Sweden Democrats, are already considering extending the offer to migrants who hold Swedish citizenship if they are willing to renounce it. The real effectiveness of these policies and their long-term impact on Swedish society and migration flows remain to be seen.