Born in Sweden, but furthest from power

Women born in Sweden to two foreign-born parents were the least likely to feel they could reach decision-makers. The wider survey found that participation can grow even while trust and perceived influence remain weak.

The 2026 survey asked adults how they rated their opportunities to put views to decision-makers. Foreign-born respondents were more likely than Swedish-born respondents to describe those opportunities as great. The share was lowest among women born in Sweden to two foreign-born parents.

That finding sits inside a wider pattern. Swedish-born adults with two foreign-born parents reported lower confidence across virtually every institution examined, even after SCB accounted for age. They were also less hopeful about Sweden as a country and less likely to say people are treated equally.

The report found only marginal differences between Swedish-born and foreign-born respondents on core values. Large majorities across the groups valued free expression, equality, respect for others, freedom to choose a spouse and following Swedish law.

The survey records perceptions and statistically significant group differences. It does not identify one cause or establish how an institution treated any individual. Age, neighbourhood conditions and other background factors vary between groups.

Time in Sweden complicates the usual integration story. Some recently arrived respondents trusted parliament and schools more than people who had lived here longer, while voting, political discussion and association membership increased with time. Participation can deepen without confidence following the same path.

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