Report highlights disparities in return migration grants between Sweden and Denmark

In mid-August, a government-commissioned report by economist Joakim Ruist sparked considerable debate. Ruist noted that the investigation failed to deliver on its central task, which was to identify measures that could significantly enhance return migration. “My conclusion is that there is nothing being done anywhere that leads to substantial increases in return migration,” he stated.

The report examined Denmark’s system, which offers a return grant of up to approximately 350,000 Swedish kronor (about $34,000) for those wishing to return to their home countries. In contrast, Sweden currently provides a mere 10,000 kronor plus travel costs. The assessment suggests that matching Denmark’s grant level could lead to an additional 700 people emigrating from Sweden each year. However, Ruist cautioned that this could potentially harm integration efforts, especially if specific groups feel targeted. He warned that perceived unfairness in the welfare system could damage public trust.

Despite the report’s recommendations against increasing the grant, there are strong indications that a significant raise is still likely. The Sweden Democrats (SD), who have long championed this issue, see it as integral to their policy agenda. The party and the government have challenged the report’s assessment of the associated risks. “We believe a substantial increase is necessary, as stipulated in the Tidö agreement,” said SD’s migration spokesperson Ludvig Aspling, indicating support for aligning grants with Denmark’s levels.