Hazara Refugees in Sweden Reclaim Distinct Identity Beyond ‘Afghan’ Label

Young Hazara refugees in Sweden strongly resist being labeled simply as Afghans, asserting a unique cultural and historical identity. Echoing the sentiment “I am Hazara, not Afghan,” many in this refugee community emphasize their distinct origins and experiences. This is grounded in a history of persecution and a rich cultural heritage the Hazaras feel is erased under the broader Afghan umbrella.

Notably, protests such as those in 2015, where Hazara youth held signs saying "Stop Hazara genocide" in Stockholm, and larger demonstrations in 2017, have brought attention to their plight and identity assertion. The Hazara community mainly speaks Persian and predominantly practices Shia Islam. Physically, they are often described as having East Asian features, reflecting debated origins that include descent from pre-Indo-European populations or possibly from Mongol conquerors like Genghis Khan’s army.

According to cultural studies referenced by Karin Fridell Anter, the Hazaras’ presence in the region dates back at least 2,000 years, predating major Buddhist influences such as the Bamiyan Buddhas. While acknowledging their roots in Afghanistan—a historically complex crossroads of empires and cultures—they discard the Afghan label due to the sociopolitical implications and their distinct ethnic identity.

This identity stance captures the nuanced self-perception of Hazara refugees in Sweden, highlighting their demand for recognition beyond nation-based categories and underscoring the importance of understanding minority narratives within immigration discourse.