As Sweden prepares for the 2026 general election and looks ahead to the 2029 EU election, a crucial question hangs in the air: What truly drives our national prosperity? Alternative for Immigrants (AfI) today releases compelling data showing that immigration is not a burden, but a powerful engine for economic growth, offering a clear path to a stronger, more dynamic Sweden.

For too long, the narrative around immigration has been clouded by misinformation and fear. But when we look at the hard economic facts, a different picture emerges, one where welcoming policies lead directly to a thriving nation.

The Evidence is Clear: Choose Growth, Not Stagnation

AfI has analyzed real economic growth (real GDP, adjusted for inflation) over the past two decades (2004-2024), comparing Sweden and other nations with relaxed immigration policies to countries like Japan, which has maintained a restrictive approach. The results are undeniable:

• Countries with relaxed immigration policies (green bars) saw massive economic expansion:
  • Australia’s economy grew by an astonishing 67.9%
  • Sweden’s economy expanded by a robust 43.1%
  • Canada’s economy saw a strong increase of 43.0%
  • Norway’s economy grew by a solid 34.1%
• But in Japan, with its famously restrictive immigration policies (red bar), real economic growth barely registered at a mere 11.1%.

This striking difference isn’t a coincidence. It’s a testament to a fundamental economic truth: New arrivals bring new ideas, new skills, new businesses, and new consumers. They fill labor shortages, contribute to our tax base, and inject vitality into our communities. They are essential for a growing, aging society like Sweden.

Sweden’s Choice: Embrace the Future or Fall Behind

Just like Australia, Canada, and Norway, Sweden has benefited immensely from its relatively open approach to immigration. Our immigrants are doctors, engineers, entrepreneurs, and caregivers. They are students who will contribute to our future, and families who strengthen our social fabric. They are critical to sustaining our welfare model and keeping our economy competitive on the global stage.

The path Japan has taken, grappling with a shrinking workforce and stagnant demand, offers a stark warning. As our population ages, we cannot afford to close our doors to the talent and dynamism that immigrants bring. To do so would be to actively choose economic decline.

AfI’s Vision for a Prosperous Sweden

AfI is committed to safeguarding and advancing the rights and well-being of immigrants. Our vision is a Sweden where immigrants are fully integrated, respected, and empowered. This isn’t just a social ideal; it’s an economic necessity.

Our policies on legal advocacy, public awareness, and anti-discrimination are designed to ensure immigrants can integrate successfully, maximizing their immense potential to contribute to Sweden’s economy.

As we look towards the 2026 and 2029 elections, AfI calls on all Swedes to consider the clear economic evidence. Let us move beyond prejudice and embrace a future where welcoming immigration policies continue to be the engine of national prosperity for all.

Join AfI in building a stronger, more prosperous Sweden, where every individual, regardless of their origin, has the opportunity to thrive.