Migration pressures in Scandinavia have been at “historically high levels,” with many new arrivals coming as refugees or asylum seekers. According to the data from Nordregio Magazine, spanning 26 years from 1990 to 2016, the population of the Nordic countries has experienced a remarkable 15 percent growth from a combination of both natural increase and positive net migration. This demographic shift shows the significant impact of migration on the region’s social, economic, and cultural landscape.
In 2022, the largest group of migrants are coming from Ukraine after the Russian invasion in February. Finally, immigrants from Poland made up the third largest group. The influx of Ukrainian migrants following the Russian invasion underscores the profound impact of geopolitical events on migration patterns. At the same time, the significant presence of Polish immigrants highlights the enduring ties between Poland and Scandinavia.
In order to reside in Norway, you need a visa and a residence permit. In fact, from reading some articles, it is easy to move to Norway if you have a valid reason for settling in the country, such as a job or school to attend. Norway is known as a safe country with very low crime rates and a high quality of living. They have impeccable healthcare, education, and safety all begin at a very high standard.
“In 2015 and 2016, nearly 2.7 million asylum seekers arrived in the European Union, comprising the largest mass of movement in Europe since World War II,” the Migration Policy Institute states. Although nearly ten years have passed since this statistic, we can assume trends. Migration pressures have always been a debate in countries around the world. In 2021, Norway received 39,00 new immigrants on a long-term or permanent basis, most benefiting from free mobility or labor.
Norway’s economy will benefit from the influx of migrants, particularly those with skills and education. Migrants fill gaps in the labor market, bring new ideas, and contribute to economic growth overall. New people and ideas bring progress and growth; both are needed for success, especially in today’s society.
One challenge that may come with migration is integration into Norwegian society, a common struggle with countries that take in refugees. There also can be positives when I think of negative possibilities, like assimilation and loss of religious practice. With the progress of positive public opinion on migration issues and the role of political word choice when shaping attitudes toward migrants, their introduction can be safe and effective.
Norway’s role in humane assistance is crucial to upholding international obligations to protect the rights of migrants and refugees. “Norway is a generous and reliable donor to the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) and has provided key support in protecting and providing an education to refugee youth children,” which is an easy way to tie in my group’s overall discussion and project on civic education in Scandinavia. Since Norway continues to protect vulnerable refugees after their journey from their countries and provides education, there must be a sense of admiration for their country.
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