Sweden GA Policy Statement

Sweden Policy Statement
The movement of groups and individuals on an international scale is cause for upheaval in many nations. The payment of ransoms of kidnapped Swedish citizens in the past has caused a firm belief in withholding ransoms for potentially dangerous groups committing such crimes towards Swedish citizens. Concerning the issue of immigration across borders, the movement of migrant workers and families is supported through the accessibility to resources provided to foreign residents in Sweden. Sweden maintains its efforts for a comfortable environment and resources for immigrants within the country. Along with this, Sweden continues to implement government-based systems in order to provide support to victims of human trafficking within the country. Sweden recognizes the need for a monitored system for international immigration, but also suggests a simple and humane system for the country’s immigrant population.
Recalling past issues of paid ransoms by the Swedish government that put Swedish citizens in danger of being victimized in future kidnapping situations, Sweden supports the ban on funds and economic assistance to groups taking action in kidnapping for ransom. The practice of freezing funds that could be used for the payment of kidnapped individuals and groups is also supported by Sweden. Sweden recognizes the payment of ransom for kidnapped individuals to be monetary support to extremist and terrorist groups. The actions of the Counter-Terrorism Implementation Task Force (CTITF) to ensure adherence to these stipulations have been followed and upheld by the Swedish government.
Sweden has long been a centralized location for many immigrants seeking access to citizenship in countries that can provide safe haven. As a result of the many refugee families from Latin America and the Middle East seeking asylum and reunification in Sweden, we fully support immigration policies that make it possible for refugees to be relocated to safe and welcoming countries in a timely manner. By following the many points of the Migrant Integration Policy Index (MIPEX), Sweden has been given the highest score out of all the nations in the European Union (EU) on a conducted assessment of immigration policies. Sweden supports dual nationality for the children of immigrants. In addition, the Swedish Migration Board favors a “qualification period for citizenship” so that, within a year for individuals, or three years for refugee families searching for reunification, refugees may begin the process of attaining Swedish citizenship. Sweden provides additional support to immigrants by making available introductory language and culture classes after one year of residency, an approach that is favored by the European Union (EU). Anti-discrimination is also a point of focus, addressed through specialized government agencies mandated to help victims by providing legal advice.
Human trafficking and forced prostitution have decreased in the past decade in Sweden through the implementation of standards set by the Working Group on Trafficking in Persons. Rather than punishing or prosecuting the victims of human trafficking, Sweden emphasizes case management of individual human trafficking victims, with immediate support and medical assistance to women and children found to be transported illegally across borders. The Swedish government provides temporary to permanent residency for trafficking victims in accordance with the Trafficking Protocol in the European Trafficking Convention. In extreme cases, victims may be provided with change in identity to ensure their safety. Sweden is committed to aiding all persons victimized by human trafficking and supports efforts to ensure their wellness.