World News for Students of English

02-04-2026 07:00

Sweden, once known for being very open, now has some of the strictest migration policies in Europe.

A new law passed by the conservative government is causing many young people to be deported, even if they grew up in Sweden, speak the language, and have jobs or partners there. The Swedish Migration Authority says that once a person turns 18, they are adults and no longer need their family’s protection, even if their parents have permanent residency. The media have reported on extreme cases, such as an 8-month-old baby receiving a deportation notice. Many of those being sent away, like Nardin, Isa, and Batis, are terrified to return to countries like Iran or Egypt, where they may face danger or discrimination.

While thousands of Swedes have protested in 30 cities to support these young people, the Swedish Parliament recently rejected a plan to stop the deportations. The government argues that these tough rules are necessary and bring Sweden in line with the rest of Europe.

Difficult words: conservative (a political group that usually likes to keep traditional rules and can be very strict about new changes or migration), permanent residency (an official document or status that allows a person from another country to live and work in a new country forever), deportation notice (an official letter from the government telling a person that they must leave the country by a certain date).

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