mottagandekommuner

Mottagandekommuner, literally “receiving municipalities,” is a term used in Sweden to describe municipalities that are designated to host and provide reception for asylum seekers and newly arrived refugees as part of the national migration and integration system. The concept covers the initial reception phase, housing, social services, and the groundwork for integration into local society.

The Swedish Migration Agency coordinates the distribution of asylum seekers to different municipalities based on factors such as capacity, housing availability, and local preparedness. Municipalities sign agreements with the agency to receive, house, and support newcomers, including practical services and introductions to Swedish society. The arrangement typically involves cooperation with county councils for health care and with other regional actors to ensure access to education, language training, and employment support.

Responsibilities in mottagandekommuner include providing suitable housing or housing arrangements, daily welfare services, interpretation and information, enrollment in school for children, introduction to Swedish language training (SFI), and assistance with social and civic integration. Municipal administrations often collaborate with local housing actors, schools, health services, and non-governmental organizations to deliver these services.

Funding for reception and integration activities comes from state grants and reimbursements to municipalities, supplemented by municipal finances. The level of support depends on the number of reception cases and the scope of services provided, with ongoing reporting and oversight to the national authorities.

The system aims to balance regional distribution, meet capacity needs, and promote long-term integration, while municipalities face challenges such as housing availability, financing, and ensuring effective inclusion of newcomers into local communities.