Political Backlash in Norsjö Over Abolished Track Change Policy Affecting Asylum Seekers

In Norsjö, Sweden, a strong political backlash has emerged following the government's decision to abolish the track change policy, which had allowed asylum seekers to apply for work permits without leaving the country. This policy change, effective since spring, now requires rejected asylum seekers to return to their home countries to apply for work permits, impacting approximately 5,000 individuals, including the Ghorbani Masoudi family.

Politicians across the spectrum in Norsjö have united in criticism. Håkan Jansson, opposition leader from the Moderate Party, expressed his concern in a letter to Migration Minister Johan Forssell, condemning the effect on responsible and working individuals who have followed the rules. Jansson stated, "These individuals have done exactly what we have asked for," highlighting that the policy change is the result of flawed migration legislation that fails to consider local community realities.

Sara Ghorbani Shamasbi and her family, who had integrated into Norsjö’s community, now face the prospect of leaving Sweden due to the new rules. The municipal chair, Mikael Lindfors, emphasized that the abolition of the track change threatens population growth and economic stability, especially in smaller municipalities like Norsjö. He argued for tailored legislation recognizing the contributions of established residents, warning that the future growth and survival of Sweden depend on these measures.

While Migration Minister Johan Forssell acknowledged the emotional difficulties surrounding the decision, he defended the policy by stressing its necessity to prevent exploitation and maintain regulated immigration.

The political decision to abolish the track change was supported by all main parties except the Left Party and the Green Party, with the Center Party supporting parts of the reform but opposing the full abolition. This shift has left many in Norsjö concerned about demographic decline and labor shortages in smaller communities, highlighting tensions between national immigration policies and local needs.