In Sweden, a controversial proposal is being explored by a government-appointed committee that would require public sector workers to report undocumented people to authorities. This proposal, dubbed the „snitch law“ by some, was part of an agreement struck between four right-wing parties in 2022, leading to a coalition government involving three center-right parties with parliamentary support from the far-right anti-immigration Sweden Democrats (SD).
The potential impact of this proposal has sparked alarm among various professionals, including doctors, social workers, and librarians. These groups have raised concerns about the ethical implications of forcing workers to report undocumented individuals, fearing that it could lead to widespread discrimination, fear, and reluctance to seek essential services.
Michele LeVoy of the Platform for International Cooperation on Undocumented Migrants described the proposal as „utterly inhumane,“ highlighting the potential consequences of people avoiding healthcare, education, and other vital services out of fear of being reported. Professional associations have also warned that the proposal could erode trust, fuel racism, and amplify stigmatization within society.
The push to criminalize solidarity with undocumented individuals is not unique to Sweden, as similar measures have been considered in other European countries. The UK’s „hostile environment“ policies, introduced by Theresa May in 2012, serve as a cautionary tale, with reports of legal residents being misclassified as immigration offenders, leading to unnecessary hardships and taxpayer expenses.
Despite the government’s assertion that reporting requirements would support legal migration and uphold government decisions, opposition to the proposal remains strong. The Swedish Medical Association (SMA) has emphasized the importance of providing care without discrimination, while the professional ethics council for teachers has suggested that civil disobedience may be necessary if the proposal becomes reality.
Librarians, too, have expressed strong opposition to the idea, with many stating that they would rather lose their jobs than report individuals in need. Anna Troberg of the trade union DIK emphasized that the issue goes beyond employment and speaks to fundamental values of trust, humanity, and democracy.
As the committee continues to explore the feasibility of implementing this proposal into law, the debate surrounding the „snitch law“ in Sweden underscores the complex ethical considerations and potential consequences of policies targeting undocumented individuals. The broad-based opposition from various sectors of society reflects a growing concern over the erosion of trust, the amplification of discrimination, and the potential impact on vulnerable populations.
