Sweden Implements Controversial 'Snitch Law' Requiring Agencies to Report Undocumented Immigrants

A controversial new law, dubbed the "angiverilagen" or "snitch law" by critics, has come into effect in Sweden. Under this legislation, six government agencies are now mandated to inform the police if they have reason to believe an individual does not have the legal right to stay in the country.

The affected agencies include the Swedish Public Employment Service, the Social Insurance Agency, the Prison and Probation Service, the Enforcement Authority, the Pensions Agency, and the Tax Agency. While these authorities are not required to actively search for undocumented individuals, they must pass on any information they already possess if concrete circumstances suggest a person lacks residency rights.

The law has drawn sharp criticism from several children's rights and human rights organizations, as well as trade unions representing employees at the affected agencies. These groups argue that the law fosters an environment of suspicion and could disproportionately impact vulnerable individuals.

Political opposition was also evident, with the Left Party and the Green Party voting against the proposal. The Social Democrats and the Centre Party also expressed reservations, advocating for a higher threshold for reporting, specifically requiring "strong reasons" to suspect illegal stay rather than just "reason to assume."