In 2015, Sweden received thousands of unaccompanied children, especially boys. A majority of those who received a residence permit remain in the country and have established themselves on the labor market, new statistics from the Statistics Authority, Statistics Norway, show.
Statistics Norway has investigated how many of those born in 1999, which is the most common year of birth among those who came together in 2015, have employment.
The figures show that roughly eight out of ten boys who came then are now busy studying or working.
– There is nothing that surprises us because we and those who support unaccompanied minors know how well things are going for us, says Muhammed Ali, who is chairman of the Association of Unaccompanied Minors, in Nyhetsmorgon.
Built network
The figures are from the end of 2022 and have increased even more in 2023. The main group that has established itself in Sweden are unaccompanied immigrants from Afghanistan, many of whom now work in health care or restaurants.
It has also fared better for the unaccompanied children than for the refugee children who came with their parents, and more are employed than peers born in Sweden, Statistics Sweden’s figures show.
– We have struggled these years. We have been treated very badly and brutally. Authorities have deprioritised us, but we have also managed to create a network, says Muhammed Ali.
“Long and dangerous journey”
Muhammed highlights a harsh upbringing, where many were forced to take responsibility early on, as an explanation for why so many found employment so quickly.
– We have also made this long and dangerous journey. We have staked our lives on this.
He believes that those who came as single-mother refugee children in 2015 generally appreciate Sweden more than others do.
– We are also very grateful for the opportunity we have been given, for this new life that Sweden has given us. This is our home and we will help contribute.