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FACULTY OF HEALTH AND OCCUPATIONAL STUDIES

Department of Social Work and Criminology

Undocumented immigrants in Sweden stonewalled from accessing services:

Professionals’ Perspectives.

Ana Guillén & Simret Kebede 2021

Student thesis, Bachelor level, 15 HE credits.

Social Work

Bachelor of Science in Social Work, Specialization in International Social Work

Supervisor: Komal Singh Rambaree

Examiner: Päivi Turunen

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Ana Guillén & Simret Kebede

Abstract

The social exclusion of undocumented immigrants is a global phenomenon that concerns the social work profession. Despite laws that protect human rights, undocumented immigrants in many countries, including in Sweden, face multiple challenges associated with a lack of legal status. This study aims to examine how legal barriers act as exclusion mechanisms against undocumented immigrants in Sweden when accessing services. Through a qualitative method, data collection involving semi-structured interviews with professionals engaged in supporting this group was carried out. The results were analyzed by using deductive thematic analysis, applying the social exclusion theory, as well as using earlier research on the subject. The findings identified structural barriers that exclude undocumented immigrants regarding accessing services, where civil society has intervened to give basic support. The study results also reflect that it has been difficult for social workers who work in the social services to help this group.

Keywords:

Undocumented immigrants, barriers, services, social exclusion, Sweden

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Ana Guillén & Simret Kebede

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

Ana’s acknowledgments

First, I would like to thank my thesis partner, Simret, for her sense of responsibility and dedication to our thesis and been such a hard worker. Furthermore, I wish to show my appreciation to Ajit, our supervisor, who gave us suggestions and accepted nothing less than excellence from us.

To the participants of the study and every person that works with the cause of undocumented immigrants: I am grateful to see the level of engagement that you have. You inspire me and make me feel hope for the future as a social worker.

I wish to extend my special thanks to my classmates for their feedback, cooperation, and of course, friendship. Moreover, I am also grateful to the people that help us with corrections, IT support, recommending us to participants, etc. Without you, this would not be possible.

Last but not least, I would like to thank my family: To my mom, that always believes in me, to my dear daughter, Sofia, who is my biggest motivation in life; to her father Oscar that was always there for me during this journey, taking care of our daughter even more than he needed to for me to be able to succeed in my studies. And to my beloved partner, Jonas, who is the person that has helped me the most throughout my studies, the one who has always supported me and encouraged me to be the best version of myself.

Simret’s acknowledgments

First of all, I would like to thank my thesis partner Ana (Anita), for being supportive and understanding. Your focused, flexible, and easy-going work style made it possible to successfully complete this research project. I would also like to express my gratitude to Komal Singh Rambaree, Ph.D., our research supervisor, for his support and guidance.

I may also extend my appreciation to the professionals who took their time to participate in this study and share their knowledge. In addition, I am grateful to everyone who took part in this thesis: teachers and other staff in the international social work study program, classmates, and friends.

I would also like to give special thanks to my family for their tireless support and encouragement during the entire course.

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Ana Guillén & Simret Kebede

Table of Contents

CHAPTER 1 – INTRODUCTION ... 1

1.1 Introduction ... 1

1.2 Motivation ... 2

1.3 Aim and research questions ... 4

1.4 Essay disposition ... 4

CHAPTER 2 – LITERATURE REVIEW ... 5

2.1 Inadequate legal rights as a barrier to accessing services. ... 5

2.2 Lack of information or directives as a barrier to accessing services. ... 7

2.3 Fear of deportation as a barrier to accessing services. ... 7

2.4 Role of social workers, non-governmental organizations, and civil society actors ... 9

2.5 Relevance of earlier research to this study ... 10

CHAPTER 3 – THEORETICAL FRAMEWORK ... 12

3.1 Social exclusion theory ... 12

CHAPTER 4 – METHODOLOGY ... 15

4.1 Research design ... 15

4.2 Data collection ... 16

4.2.1 Sampling: selection of participants ... 16

4.2.2 Designing interview guide and interview questions. ... 17

4.2.3 Conducting interviews. ... 17

4.2.4 The choice of previous research ... 18

4.3 Data transcription ... 19

4.4 Tools of analysis ... 19

4.5 Essay trustworthiness ... 20

4.5.1 Validity & Credibility ... 20

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Ana Guillén & Simret Kebede

4.5.2 Reliability ... 21

4.5.3 Generalization ... 22

4.6 Ethical considerations ... 22

4.7 Limitations of the study ... 23

CHAPTER 5 – RESULT ... 24

5.1 Inadequate rights ... 25

5.2 Lack of information or directives ... 28

5.3 Fear of deportation ... 29

5.4 Role of social workers, civil society actors, and NGOs ... 30

CHAPTER 6 - ANALYSIS & DISCUSSIONS ... 33

6.1 Analysis & discussion of results in relation to research questions ... 33

6.1.1 Inadequate rights ... 33

6.1.2 Lack of information or directives ... 36

6.1.3 Fear of deportation ... 37

6.1.4 Role of social workers, civil society actors, and NGOs ... 38

6.2 Comparison to earlier research ... 39

6.3 Discussion of theory. ... 39

6.4 Discussion of methodology ... 40

6.5 Implications to international social work ... 41

6.6 Suggestions for further research ... 42

References ... 43

Appendices ... 48

Appendix I: Interview guide ... 48

Appendix II: Letter of Consent ... 50

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Ana Guillén & Simret Kebede

List of figures

Figure 4.1 Research design framework ……….………15 Figure 5.1 Process and identification of study results from interview data…………..…….…....25

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CHAPTER 1 – INTRODUCTION

1.1 Introduction

International migration, occurring at an increasingly high rate, reaching around 281 million in 2020, has become a global phenomenon (International Organization for Migration [IOM], 2020). The sharp escalation of asylum seekers makes it a pressing concern to many countries (Migration Policy Institute [MPI], 2019); and it is a prominently relevant issue for international social work (Jönsson, 2014). Many people from different countries, such as Syria, Iraq, Afghanistan, Somalia, Eritrea, South Sudan, Venezuela, etc. are forced to flee their homeland because of long-running and emerging crises, comprising conflicts, wars, environmental disasters, destruction of local communities, poverty, etc. (Migration Policy Institute [MPI], 2019; Reid & Huber, 2020). Whilst access to asylum is becoming more restricted (ibid); thus, exposing many to deportation, and others are forced into undocumented status (Jönsson, 2014). Immigrants with undocumented status are a vulnerable group that needs special attention considering the fact that they are outside their home countries and lack a legal right to live in the destination country.

Sweden is a country that has a long history of migration and is known for its generous migration and welfare policies (Skodo, 2018). For example, World War II (the 1950s and 1960s) migrants from European countries and refugees from other parts of the world since the early 1970s (ibid). However, the government has introduced border controls and restrictive asylum laws following the refugee crisis of 2015-16 (ibid). People whose asylum application is rejected must leave Sweden voluntarily or are subjected to forced deportation (Hovemyr, 2020, November 25). For example, the Swedish Migration Agency closed around 18 000 return cases in 2019, and out of those, 47 % returned voluntarily, while 43 % of the cases were handed over to the police (ibid). Those who remain in the country staying illegally (who are the interest group of this study) are in constant fear of deportation and suffer many challenges associated with their illegal status (Jönsson, 2014; Wahlström, 2018).

Immigrants, in general, are marginalized and excluded from accessing the labor market as well as in social and cultural participation in many of the destination countries (Somerville 1998, as cited in Taket et al. 2009, p. 19). In common, undocumented immigrants in Sweden are to a great extent excluded from social rights and support, employment opportunities, health care, housing, and

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education’’ (Jönsson, 2014). Sweden is a welfare state that follows a universal welfare model where everyone with a residence permit is entitled to right-based free or affordable social services and social insurance (Esping-Andersen, 1990). Undocumented immigrants, however, are ineligible for those rights. Even though civil society actors are offering practical support, such as information and guidance, shelter, food, cash assistance, language training, etc., the kind of support they provide is minimal compared to the needs of this group (Jönsson, 2014). Consequently, many undocumented immigrants are subjected to low-paid irregular jobs, exploitation, homelessness, poverty, violence, prostitution, etc.(ibid). Moreover, access to support for undocumented immigrants has become more difficult with the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, putting them in danger of becoming one of the biggest victims of the pandemic, given their extremely vulnerable conditions (Bhopal, 2020).

Furthermore, due to the migration policies, social workers working at the social services in Sweden cannot help undocumented immigrants coming to them (Jönsson, 2014; Wirehag et al., 2021). They can only support this group by allying with civil society actors (ibid). Nonetheless, as their professional duty entails, social workers are responsible for fighting injustice and inequalities whilst promoting human rights for all people irrespective of their socio-economic and legal status (Banks, 2006; Healy, 2007; IFSW, 2018; Jönsson, 2014). Thus, the issue of vulnerable or disadvantaged groups such as undocumented immigrants requires social workers to play a determinant role in enforcing human rights.

1.2 Motivation

This research intends to explore “legal barriers undocumented immigrants face in seeking services”

as a vulnerable group undergoing social exclusion. The authors would like to explore this problem in the Swedish context, looking into the inputs of social workers and other professionals in the field, intending to get first-hand information about their perceptions. Hence, to gain a deep understanding of how social work in collaboration with civil society positively influences vulnerable people’s lives.

This phenomenon needs special attention when considering factors such as variation in the availability of accessible services for this group in different cities; and emergency situations, for example, the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic and its disproportionate impact on vulnerable groups. As yet, there has been no previous investigation on the impact of such factors (in the Swedish context). Understanding this may lead to a greater perception of the matter, greater effectiveness in

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the strategies used to address the situation, and a better position to improve the living condition of the target group.

The initiative to write about the topic came from both authors. Having general knowledge that undocumented immigrants suffer because of lack of legal statusand associated disadvantages, in addition to being in a new environment. Common interest was brought together to understand how to help such marginalized or vulnerable groups as future social workers. Another motivation for this study was that the authors had done their practical placement of this program with organizations in Sweden that are engaged in helping undocumented immigrants among other vulnerable groups. The valuable services that these organizations provide became an inspiration to want to explore the subject.

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1.3 Aim and research questions

The study aims to examine how legal barriers act as exclusion mechanisms against undocumented immigrants in Sweden when accessing services and to identify strategies that can be used to address those barriers. The research questions are:

• According to the professionals, what legal barriers exist against undocumented immigrants in accessing services in Sweden, and what are their implications?

• What strategies can be used to address these barriers?

1.4 Essay disposition

The presentation of the study is divided into overall six (6) chapters. Chapter 1 is an introductory part where the description of the problem area, background, aim, and research questions are presented.

Chapter 2 presents earlier research on the social exclusion of undocumented immigrants. Chapter 3 discusses the relevance of the theoretical framework, i.e., social exclusion theory, which was used to guide the whole study. Chapter 4 defines the research design and methodology applied in this research. It also includes essay trustworthiness, ethical considerations, and limitations of the study.

Chapter 5 addresses results, where interview results are presented in themes. Chapter 6 presents an analysis and a discussion of the summary of results. It discusses how the results are related to the study aim, research questions, earlier research, and theoretical framework. Additionally, it contains a discussion of methodology, a section on the study's implications to international social work, and suggestions for further research in the area. The essay ends with a list of references used in this study and a section with relevant appendices. Both the authors were equally engaged in the research work and involved in all parts of the essay writing.

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CHAPTER 2 – LITERATURE REVIEW

This chapter presents earlier research relevant to this study, collected from scholarly journal articles.

Through analyzing the previous studies, the authors of this study could gain illumination on the impact of ‘lacking legal migration status,’ which, according to the findings of the previous studies, is linked with the exclusion of undocumented immigrants and associated with disregarding their human rights. Wherefore, the authors of this study could determine the ‘social exclusion theory’ as suitable to be used as a frame of reference for the whole study. Besides, four (4) themes that ascribe to the theory of social exclusion were identified, whereby the findings of the previous studies are presented below. These themes are subsequently used as a framework for data collection and analysis (as explained in the methodology section).

The review work of the articles is focused on the position of undocumented immigrants concerning accessing services (healthcare, housing, education, and employment) and its impact; on social workers’ and national laws’ position on the situation; and the role of the civil society. As the authors of this study are interested in exploring the research problem in the context of Sweden, the review of articles written in Sweden gives contextually relevant knowledge. While the articles from other countries were identified to provide knowledge and insight into how the research problem is defined and explained in other contexts. This helps to get a glimpse at the research problem from an international view. Thus, the review is presented below as organized in themes: such as inadequate legal rights as a barrier to accessing services; lack of information as a barrier to accessing services;

fear of deportation as a barrier to accessing services; and a theme on role of social workers, non- governmental organizations, and civil society actors.

2.1 Inadequate legal rights as a barrier to accessing services.

Earlier studies have found that undocumented immigrants in the USA, and different European countries, such as the UK, Sweden, Denmark, and the Netherlands, have no legal status and no entitlement to equal rights as those who have citizenship or residence permit. The article by Jönsson (2014) titled “Local reactions to global problems: Undocumented immigrants and social work,”

written in Sweden, states that undocumented immigrants in Sweden are to a great extent excluded

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from social rights, social services, socioeconomic support, health care, housing, education, and employment opportunities. Hence, many of the undocumented, struggling to survive and care for their families, are engaged in a low-paid irregular labor market with no legal support, getting exposed to exploitation, discrimination, violence, health problems, etc., leading to other social problems such as poverty, homelessness, prostitution, etc. (ibid).

According to Stewart (2014), in his article written in the USA, titled “Undocumented immigrants and policy advocacy: Reasserting the activist roots of social work,” the discriminatory aspects of immigration policies reinforce the dehumanization of undocumented immigrants, constraining their social integration and access to services. These political rules and policies leave out undocumented immigrants and create barriers to accessing services and claiming their rights (ibid). They operate through laws and administrative regulations that openly prohibit undocumented immigrants from rightfully accessing the workforce, welfare programs, medical services, other rights and opportunities that only citizens get (Gleeson & Gonzales, 2012, as cited in Stewart, 2014, p. 35; Jönsson, 2014). In addition, a study by Negi et al. (2018), titled “Social workers must stand up for immigrant rights:

Strategies for action,” written in the USA, discusses that undocumented immigrants in new destination cities, compared with those living cities that have established immigrant communities, are more affected by anti-immigrant legislation and lack services accessible to immigrants.

Moreover, a study done in the UK by Bhopal (2020), titled “COVID-19: Immense necessity and challenges in meeting the needs of minorities, especially asylum seekers and undocumented migrants”, discusses that the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic has worsened an already challenging situation, where undocumented immigrants are in a greater need of help in comparison with other groups. Undocumented immigrants fall at especially high risk for reasons including minimal rights to healthcare and lack of access to rent a house. Furthermore, Rambaree and Nässen (2020), in their article titled “The Swedish Strategy towards the COVID-19 Pandemic: Impact on Vulnerable and Marginalized Communities”, written in Sweden, pointed out that immigrants [including undocumented immigrants] among other marginalized groups are more vulnerable to the disease due to socio-economic factors that are related to poor public health assistance and overpopulation in the neighborhoods they live in.

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2.2 Lack of information or directives as a barrier to accessing services.

A comparative study done by Biswas et al. (2012), titled “Access to health care for undocumented migrants from a human rights perspective: a comparative study of Denmark, Sweden, and The Netherlands,” highlights that even though undocumented immigrants have the right to access emergency healthcare, there are still barriers to accessing services, such as lack of information about the health care system. This leads to delay in seeking treatment, self-medication, etc. (ibid).

On the other hand, Jönsson (2014) pointed out that undocumented immigrants in Sweden encounter hurdles in accessing services since the municipality workers do not have clear directives on implementing the official declarations. Similarly, a study by Lundberg and Strange (2017), titled

“Struggles over human rights in local government–the case of access to education for undocumented youth in Malmö, Sweden,” reveals that undocumented youth get difficulty in accessing school services since the school administration do not have clear directives on how to appropriate the official declaration of the right to school for these children.

Rambaree and Nässen (2020), and Bhopal (2020), when addressing the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, underlined access to proper information. Lack of formal or established communication means between the public service providers and undocumented immigrants is a critical factor in such emergencies (Bhopal, 2020). The effect heightens since timely information is necessary to reach all people in society on protecting oneself, avoiding spreading the sickness, and getting medical help. At the point of the outbreak of COVID-19, it was found that immigrants (including undocumented) in a vulnerable situation did not get proper and well-timed information since it was handled in the Swedish language (Rambaree and Nässen, 2020).

2.3 Fear of deportation as a barrier to accessing services.

A study by Wahlström (2018), titled “‘Hiding in Plain Sight’: Daily Strategies and Fear Management among Undocumented Refugee Children in Sweden,” describes the everyday lives of the undocumented immigrants in Sweden as being shaped by “deportability,” as they experience a

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constant threat of deportation. To survive, they stay in the shadows by hiding their identity and avoiding activities that bring the attention of state authorities (ibid). They depend on informal networks and do irregular jobs, avoiding contact with welfare services (ibid). About this, Jönsson (2014) unraveled that the municipality and other governmental institutions in Sweden have been lacking proper methods of working with undocumented immigrants. This lack of methods, for example, “undocumented practices” (that support anonymity), induces fear among the undocumented, thus creating obstacles to seeking services (ibid).

Children from undocumented family are also living in a situation where they need to carry the responsibility not to reveal their migration status (and their parents) and the address where they live, also to abstain from any activity or place that exposes them to be discovered or asked about their identity (Wahlström, 2018). The study by Lundberg and Strange (2017) also affirms that an increasing search on undocumented immigrants by the Swedish police makes it impossible for undocumented children to escape the threat of deportation. For example, the REVA project (legally secure and efficient enforcement work) initiative by the police, which aimed to enforce deportation, that took place in the city of Malmö at the beginning of 2012, resulted in more deportations (ibid). This was followed by protests and loss of legitimacy for state and local authorities as providers of essential public services (ibid). Some authority figures spoke of undocumented children in Malmö being afraid to go to school or seek medical care (ibid).

In the studies carried out in the USA, one by Stewart (2014) reveals that the deportation of undocumented immigrants took apart numerous families, and those children who have American citizenship live in fear perpetually that their parents (who are undocumented) may get deported. In support of this, the study by Negi et al. (2018), finds that undocumented immigrants are greatly affected by fear of deportation, especially those living in new destination cities. The children suffer from anxiety related to the risk of deportation, and they cannot attend school regularly because of immigration raids, which cripples their learning and socializing (ibid).

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2.4 Role of social workers, non-governmental organizations, and civil society actors

As members of a “human rights profession,” social workers working with undocumented immigrants face a conflict between national laws, including rules framing their work (that exclude the undocumented immigrants), and the Global Statements of Ethical Principles of Social Work define their profession. According to Jönsson (2014), social workers working in the municipalities in Sweden find it difficult to fully practice their professional duty concerning supporting undocumented immigrants, since the practices of the national social work in Sweden do not include them. The social workers opt to take different positions because of the lack of explicit laws and rules on working with undocumented immigrants (ibid). As the findings of the study by Jönsson show, some of the social workers consider undocumented immigrants as not legitimate to receive services since they live

‘illegally’ in Sweden (ibid). However, their view has a gendered aspect in that they tend to see undocumented women and children as deserving some kind of help (ibid). Some others take a position in finding a way to help undocumented immigrants within the existing practices and methods (ibid).

There are also those social workers who actively endeavor to advance the legal rights of undocumented immigrants and try to avoid legal restrictions creatively (ibid). In collaboration with civil society actors, some of the social workers created new ways of working with excluded groups, including undocumented immigrants (ibid). Beyond this, some make personal contacts with other professionals in an effort to improve the living conditions of undocumented immigrants (ibid).

Because of the restrictions against accessing services, undocumented immigrants in Sweden, as explained by Jönsson (2014), have to rely on civil society organizations (non-governmental organizations [NGOs], religious institutions, etc.) to get some practical support such as food, clothes, medicine, shelter, as well as, counseling, help with juridical matters, or contacting service providers, etc. Some social programs were initiated by NGOs, allied together with professional teams of doctors, nurses, lawyers, social workers, and civil society actors; for example, clinics, where health professionals volunteer to give free attention to undocumented patients were opened (Biswas et al., 2012; Jönsson, 2014). However, Jönsson also says that the ongoing efforts by NGOs to improve the living conditions of undocumented immigrants in Sweden have not succeeded in building an effective, sustainable support system (2014). This is because of limited resources and conflicting interests and roles of the NGOs (ibid). Besides, these organizations have been struggling during

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COVID-19, with factors like the decline of donations, closing charity shops, opening with limited customers, and reducing opening hours (Bhopal, 2020).

Addedly, Negi et al. (2018) reveal that social workers in the USA play a leading role, for example, in empowering undocumented immigrants by understanding their unique challenges, helping them know their rights, and facilitate communication with service providers, like schools. Moreover, social workers are key actors in identifying, coordinating, and supporting community stakeholders, such as immigrant-serving organizations, faith organizations, etc. (ibid). These organizations have been supporting undocumented immigrants, in the USA, by raising public awareness; building trust;

creating a welcoming and safe environment; creating meeting places; developing local policy initiatives; protecting and advocating for immigrant communities, forming networking groups to maximize limited resources, especially in new destination cities, etc. (ibid). To move forward in effecting change, Negi et al. remind social workers of their obligation to play a decisive role to challenge anti-immigrant legislation (ibid). Likewise, in his recommendations, Stewart (2014) said that social workers, having professional skills, must take the responsibility to change the social experiences of undocumented immigrants by advocating for policy changes to fulfill the activist attributes of their profession.

2.5 Relevance of earlier research to this study

The analytical review revealed that the articles emphasize how legal barriers act as exclusion mechanisms against undocumented immigrants in accessing services in relation to human rights. In addition, the articles give insight into the impact of the exclusion, the roles of social workers and civil society organizations, with recommendations on how to deal with the situation. Thus, the articles gave the authors of this study inspiration and informed the formulation of this study's aim and research questions (through social exclusion theory, as a frame of reference). The earlier research was also useful in analyzing the data from interview results (as demonstrated in chapter 6).

Further, concerning the research gap, one area this study considered to reflect on is the aspect of

“variation in the availability of accessible services in different regions or cities,” for which previous research (in the English language) in the context of Sweden is lacking; but it was accounted for in a study done in the USA by Negi et al. (2018). Regarding this, the study particularly takes an example

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on the availability of services in three cities, located in different regions, namely Gävle (a medium- sized city), Uppsala (a big city), and Stockholm (a Capital/largest city). This study also looked at a research gap on how the lack of access to services has been exasperated by the COVID-19 pandemic, for which no previous studies (directly related to undocumented immigrants) were located as in the context of Sweden.

In conclusion, the articles were informative and inspiring. Among other insightful details, the articles by Jönsson (2014) and Stewart (2014) reflect on the historical aspect of the cause of the research problem. One article by Biswas et al. (2012) could provide a comparative view from three countries (Sweden, Denmark, and the Netherlands). While five (5) articles reflect recent developments/changes in the study problem area. Another valuable dimension, in relevance to the connection between this study and the profession of social work, the articles by Jönsson (2014), Stewart (2014), and Negi et al. (2018) directly relate, and especially describe the role of social workers in bringing about structural changes and coordinating different service providers. All in all, the reviewed articles have provided the authors of this study with rich information and ideas on the research area.

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CHAPTER 3 – THEORETICAL FRAMEWORK

The authors of this study discovered with the “theory of social exclusion’’ after reviewing existing literature on the area of interest. The authors find the social exclusion theory crucial for understanding the situation of undocumented immigrants, as is explained below.

3.1 Social exclusion theory

The term ‘Social exclusion’ originated in France in the 1970s, and it is a widely used term in Europe (Taket et al., 2009). The original French definition, 'exclusion sociale,' is explained as a ‘rupture of social bonds.’ (p. 6). In France, the central political and cultural concern was social cohesion; which can be traced back to the work of Durkheim (1893), a French sociologist who was concerned about the loss of social solidarity and social cohesion in the society (as cited in Taket et al., 2009). Social exclusion is a contested concept that is conceptualized and defined in many various ways (ibid).

Based on the various definitions, social exclusion can be described as a dynamic (that happens at different levels, including at individual, community, and society levels, over time); multi-dimensional (encompassing social, political, cultural, and economic dimensions); and relational (driven by unequal power relationships) (ibid).

As explained above, social exclusion operates in different spheres. This study focuses on social exclusion at the macro, or societal level, i.e., exclusion operating through formal institutional legislation (Mathieson et al., 2008; Taket et al., 2009). Taket et al. (2009) discuss the lack of eligibility for citizenship as a form of social exclusion at the macro level, in which citizenship is explained as an important form of participation or social inclusion. Mathieson et al. (2008) has elaborated this to include undocumented immigrants, where the ‘non-citizens’ cannot ‘make claims to human rights, social protection or public services.’ (p. 27). This denotes the exclusion of undocumented immigrants as entrenched by their lack of eligibility for the residence permit and citizenship. In addition, Taket et al. (2009) also give insight into the relationship between structural barriers and exclusion. The lack of legal status (ineligibility) produces structural barriers that prevent undocumented immigrants from accessing services available to the rest of the population (ibid). The theory also indicates that the structural barriers can be identified by analyzing the relationship between the legislation and service provision (ibid). Legal barriers are created: when services are not fully accessible; when there is variability in how legislation is enacted, when there is a lack of accessibility regulations enforced by

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administrative bodies; when there is a lack of information on accessing services, or other factors such as geographic or demographic, etc. (ibid).

There are various approaches through which social exclusion can be understood and tackled. Taket et al. mention that a human rights-based approach is suggested to be a means to describe and tackle social exclusion, where it emphasizes the ‘inability to participate in, and be respected by, and mainstream society is a violation of a basic right that should be open to all residents (2009, p. 33).

Apropos to, Taket et al. explains that social exclusion at the macro level is represented by various forms of discriminatory legislation that tend to establish different levels of rights (2009). This results in a lack of access to the labour market and to key services, including housing, health, and education for some groups, [such as undocumented immigrants], where they get exposed to social problems, such as unemployment, poverty, homelessness, drug abuse, etc., and families cannot give their children adequate support (ibid). On the other hand, the theory also points out that advocacy and activism are instrumental in resisting social exclusion (ibid).

Mathieson et al. (2008) also discuss the human rights-based approach based on the 1948 Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which consists of a series of human rights standards where member states that have signed are obliged to respect, protect, and fulfill. According to the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR, 1996-2021), human rights are universal rights inherent to all, regardless of nationality, sex, ethnicity, color, religion, language, or another status. The rights range from the right to life, which is the most fundamental to other basic things in life, such as adequate food, clothing, housing, education, health, work, and freedom (ibid). Therefore, a human rights-based approach is assumed to be suitable for this study.

This study utilizes a deductive approach, where the findings are reached based on a theory in concern (Braun & Clarke, 2012; Gray, 2013). This approach entails the ‘social exclusion theory’ guiding the formulation of study aim, research questions, and data collection processes. To illustrate, the study aim, i.e., “to examine how the legal barriers act as exclusion mechanisms against undocumented immigrants in Sweden when accessing services,” is distinctly formulated to reflect the social exclusion theory. The aim is a direct outcome of the explanation from the theory on how social exclusion operates (universally) by establishing barriers to hinder some groups in a society from

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accessing services. Thus, the authors are guided by this theory to examine social exclusion in a specific place or context (Sweden).

Likewise with the formulation of the research questions, in reflection to the theory: the first question:

“what legal barriers exist against undocumented immigrants in accessing services in Sweden?” was formulated based on the idea from the theory about the universal existence of structural barriers that prevent some groups from accessing services (that are available for other groups in the society). This question will be used to investigate the existence and manifestation of these barriers in a specific context. The same with the second and third research questions, which are: ‘’what are the implications of these barriers?’’ and ‘’what strategies can be used to address these barriers?’’ respectively. These last two questions reflect on the impact of social exclusion and how it can be tackled, which, as posited by Mathieson et al. (2008) and Taket et al. (2009), can be explained from a human rights perspective. Further, this theory was used to guide the data collection process. It also provided ideas and concepts that help the data analysis, i.e., understand, interpret, and explain collected data (as described in the methodology section).

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CHAPTER 4 – METHODOLOGY

This chapter presents a description of the entire research process of this study, where the aspects of credibility, ethical considerations, and limitations of this study are briefly discussed as well.

4.1 Research design

According to Robson (2002), a research design denotes a framework that encompasses all aspects of a research project, with the main components: ‘purpose,’ that describes what the study aims to achieve; ‘theory,’ referring to the conceptual framework for directing the research and understanding the findings; ‘research questions,’ signifying to the questions to be answered by the research in order to achieve the purpose of the study; ‘methods,’ specifying the data collection, analysis and enhancement of data trustworthiness techniques; and ‘sampling strategy,’ indicating to how to select study participants. Robson further explains that a well-designed framework evinces strong compatibility among the components (ibid). Figure 4.1 demonstrates the research design framework of this study, accordingly:

Source: Adopted from Robson (2002, p. 82)

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4.2 Data collection

A study based on undocumented immigrants’ first-hand experiences may be more interesting– but, since the authors carefully consider the ethical dilemmas of this perspective, they decided to take the topic from another angle. Ivanoff and Blythe (2018) have pointed out that it is important to consider risks associated with research studies involving vulnerable populations, for example, causing harm or discomfort. Hence, the perspectives of professionals who have working experience with undocumented immigrants were chosen for this study.

4.2.1 Sampling: selection of participants

Non-probability purposive sampling was employed for this study, where the study participants were selected in a strategic process based on the researchers’ judgment in selecting the samples, in a way to meet the particular need of this study (Ivanoff & Blythe, 2018; Patton, 2002; Rubin & Babbie, 2011). At the same time, since it was difficult to find the last participant, the authors used snowball sampling, where a study participant was asked to assist in locating another participant (Robson, 2007).

The study participants consisted of four (4) persons, a social worker, and others from related helping professions who work in civil society organizations. To locate participants, the authors contacted non- governmental organizations (NGOs) and other civil society organizations in different cities of Sweden through emails and friends working with them; and also got some recommendations of potential participants from study colleagues. One of the writers of this research conducted her practical placement at an organization working with undocumented immigrants (among other groups), wherefrom, one staff member fulfilled the determining criterion for being part of the sampling of this study. The contact to the office of the fourth participant at the municipality was by the help of the participant who got interviewed in the first place. All the participants were selected by taking into account their educational backgrounds and vast experiences in working with undocumented immigrants. Their work experience, particularly with undocumented immigrants, varies from 1 (one) to more than 10 (ten) years. Among the participants, the social worker, having the shortest work experience (one year), is still considered as having enough knowledge to satisfy the data needed for this study, considering his educational background (degree in social work) and his long-time working experience with immigrants and other vulnerable groups as a professional social

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worker (more than ten years). Relevant to this, as English is the common language for the authors of this study, it was considered in the selection that the study participants could speak English.

4.2.2 Designing interview guide and interview questions.

This study involves an in-depth exploration through semi-structured interviews where open-ended questions that allow interviewees to give more extended answers were prepared in advance, as Robson (2002) explained. The authors prepared an interview guide consisting of introductory questions, main questions, and follow-up questions (see below in appendix I). Terry et al. (2017) stated that in a deductive approach, the interview questions should reflect the guiding theory in the study. Hence, the interview guide in this study is formulated from understanding assumptions of the social exclusion theory. The introduction questions are related to background information, work experiences, etc., while the main questions are made specific to the research questions. Additionally, follow-up questions were formulated based on the themes identified in the course of the literature review to have more precise answers.

As stated in Robson (2002), the preparation of an interview guide allowed the authors of this study to be able to change the order of the questions, as well as remove, add, and modify questions during the interview when needed (within the interview guide frame). For example, since the study participants are from a different professional background, the interview guide allows forwarding questions accordingly.

4.2.3 Conducting interviews.

In line with what Kvale & Brinkmann (2009), the interviews, in compliance with the interviewees, were conducted by online communication means, Zoom. The interview dates and times were decided through email exchanges and were arranged to be convenient for the participants as much as possible.

The language used for the interview was English, and the interview duration was in the range of 40 minutes to 1 hour. Both authors were present during interviews, and one author took the role of leader while the other was taking notes and adding questions when necessary. Both authors had both roles interchangeably. The recorded audio data was checked for every interview directly afterward to confirm that the recording was working well. Reflections on important and interesting points were exchanged before the next interview. The participants were asked and were willing to answer more questions (if necessary) after the interview was done. After going through the interview data while analyzing, the authors realized a need for more information. Two (2) participants were contacted by

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email with the option given to choose to answer in a way they prefer. They could respond by email with useful information for more analysis on an important part.

According to Frankfort-Nachmias and Nachmias (2008), to conduct a successful interview, it is essentially important to make sure the participants are comfortable, understand the study's usefulness, and the value of their participation. In this study, the researchers did as much as possible to make the participants comfortable and respected. For instance, the interview was based on the consent done with the study participants, as is explained in the ‘ethical considerations section’ in detail. They got explanations about their rights, even asserting that their preferences were a priority (e.g., to do interviews via Zoom or any other means of their preference). During the interview, the participants were informed that they can pass over any question if they do not wish or are unable to answer. In another example, since all the participants use the Swedish language in their workplaces, and some expressed that they can but are less used to speaking the English language, the authors assured them that it is possible to say a word or a phrase in the Swedish language if they find it difficult to say it in English since the authors can understand them.

4.2.4 The choice of previous research

Previous research was explored and chosen in relation to the research topic of interest at the start of this study, i.e., the phenomenon of “undocumented immigrants.” The purpose of searching previous studies was to find out what other researchers said on the problem area and determine research gaps (Bozalek & Bak, 2018). Following the strategy explained below, the authors were able to locate relevant studies and draw on more information and ideas useful to this study (discussed more in the

‘literature review’ section).

As suggested by Bozalek and Bak (2018), the authors organized the literature search based on keywords, using electronic databases and search engines (accessed through the University of Gävle), such as Discovery, Diva, SocIndex, Ebsco, and Google Scholar. The authors have also gained helpful guidance from an orientation session by a librarian from the University of Gävle on how to use relevant databases. A combination of key terms such as “undocumented immigrants, immigrants, social exclusion, Sweden, migrants, refugees, asylum seekers, social workers, human rights, barriers, discrimination, illegal, fear, deportation, etc.” was used to filter and identify some most relevant literature out of a big list, considering the time limitation of the study. Most of the search ‘hits’

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showed studies done in the USA but also listed studies done in Europe and other parts of the World.

After searching to their best level, the authors selected some relevant previous studies done in European countries (including Sweden) and the USA.

4.3 Data transcription

All the interviews were recorded using the recording option from the Zoom client. As mentioned in (Kvale & Brinkmann, 2009), manual transcription from audio to written form is a time- and energy- consuming activity. Having this in consideration, the authors transcribed the interviews by using software from Microsoft Office 365 in Word, from the access provided by the University of Gävle.

Additionally, the authors listened to the audio several times and corrected errors on the transcriptions.

4.4 Tools of analysis

The data analysis strategy used in this study is thematic analysis, which is commonly used in qualitative studies. According to Braun & Clarke (2012), there are different approaches to thematic analysis. This study is utilizing a deductive approach, which according to Braun & Clarke, points to a theory-driven data analysis (ibid). In respect of this approach, the coding process in this study started with the themes identified from the literature review process in relation to social exclusion theory to be used as a framework for this study (as explained in the ‘Literature review’ section). Therefore, these themes were the groundwork for the data coding process. Besides, keywords or segments relevant to the themes and the underlying concepts were formed to represent codes and categories and applied to the transcribed interview data, as Robson (2007) suggested. An illustration of this process can be found in the results section in chapter 5.

According to Rubin and Babbie (2011), currently, there are powerful computer programs to analyze qualitative data available for researchers. The authors could utilize qualitative data analysis and research software, called ATLAS.ti (access provided by the University of Gävle) to process coding.

The authors could not use all the software benefits since it demands expertise on how the software functions. Thus, the authors could use it partly with some knowledge they gained from an orientation session given by the research supervisor and some more directions from another expert (a family member of one of the authors). There were also some difficulties in accessing the software, but it was solved with the collaboration of a classmate.

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The authors started working in the ATLAS.ti by inserting audio data (from one interview) for testing.

But with the help of transcription software (as mentioned in the ‘data transcription section’), it became possible to alternatively put the transcribed data from all the interviews into the ATLAS.ti. The codes and categories were manually, inserted into ATLAS.ti and were used to label interview responses.

Therefore, with the help of ATLAS.ti, the codes were assigned to the interview data, and similar codes were clustered under different categories (that represent each theme) in ATLAS.ti in order to get data that is organized accordingly. Thence, categorized data was taken from ATLAS.ti and applied to its respective themes manually, which was then used to prepare this study's results.

4.5 Essay trustworthiness

4.5.1 Validity & Credibility

Validity refers to the accuracy of findings of a study in relation to the design and application of methods of the study, i.e., the degree to which the methods investigate what is intended to be investigated; or the extent to which the phenomena are reflected (Kvale & Brinkmann, 2009). The employment of a deductive approach was helpful in the preparation of an interview guide anchored to a pre-defined theoretical framework, where questions were formulated in relation to specific themes. This was instrumental in giving a more structured and focused interview, contributing to the accuracy of findings. In addition, the interview (and recording), transcription, and coding was done with the help of computer software: Zoom, Microsoft Office 365 in Word, and ATLAS.ti (as explained in ‘data transcription’ and ‘tools of analysis’ sections) with the necessary control and editing. This enhanced the data collection and analysis process, ensuring data accuracy, thereby strengthening the study's validity. Another strategy used to enhance the accuracy was to present considerable relevant direct quotations from interviewees' words to justify interpretations.

According to Lietz and Zayas (2018), credibility is a mechanism to achieve trustworthiness in a study, whereby its value is determined. The credibility of a study is achieved by ensuring that the findings reflect the intended views of the study participants, by avoiding misinterpretations or any causes of bias that can occur in the research process (ibid). Lietz and Zayas suggest several strategies that help to optimize credibility (ibid). But due to limitations, e.g., in time, resources, expertise, size of the study, etc., two of the strategies (that suit the purpose and method of this study) applicable in this study were: triangulation (data and analyst triangulation) and reflexivity to reduce researcher bias (ibid). Data triangulation was done by involving study participants from different organizations.

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Analyst triangulation was done by the involvement of both authors of this study in the analysis of data, where they compared the compatibility of their perspectives and understanding of the data from interviews and the applicability of literature. The authors also did critical examination and reflection of their preconceptions and biases that may influence what was said by the interviewees.

Apropos, in qualitative research, the credibility of the researcher, referring to his/her integrity, skill, and competence, is an essential part of measuring the validity of a study (Kvale & Brinkmann, 2009;

Patton, 2002). Even though the authors have not acquired credibility as researchers (as beginners in research), they got supervision from an experienced researcher (teacher). Support from the supervisor, which involved ongoing checking and questioning of the research work throughout all its stages, for example, having a good theoretical basis, formulation of unbiased interview questions, etc., helped minimize methodological or other errors. The other dimension of validity, which is described as ‘external validity’ referring to the extent to which the findings of a study can be generalized, will be discussed in the ‘generalizations’ section.

4.5.2 Reliability

Reliability refers to consistency, where the degree of consistency achieved both in the process of a study and in its findings account to its trustworthiness (Kvale & Brinkmann, 2009; Patton, 2002). To enhance consistency in this study, both authors were involved in every stage of the study process.

The authors were cross-checking each other’s views in an attempt to avoid or minimize inconsistencies in their understanding when collecting data, transcribing, and doing analysis. As mentioned in Lietz and Zayas (2018), a related point of relevance, with the involvement of more than one analyst, variability in data coding can occur. In this study, the authors used codes they agreed upon and applied the codes to the interview data in Atlas.ti independently. After comparing the coding each came up with, the differences were small, and it was discussed to reach the same conclusions.

The other aspect of reliability is a replication of findings over repeated research by others (Kvale &

Brinkmann, 2009). In a qualitative study, changes in social settings and study environment make it difficult to get repeated results (ibid). But the possibility of making the study findings useful to other similar settings or associated purposes will be discussed in the ‘generalization’ section found below.

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4.5.3 Generalization

Generalizability is concerned with the extent to which the findings of a study can be applied to other contexts or other people than the study group (Kvale & Brinkmann, 2009; Lietz & Zayas, 2018;

Patton, 2002). Generalizability is difficult when it comes to qualitative studies due to the small sample size and type of methods used, e.g., non-probability sampling (ibid). However, the findings may be used in other similar contexts if the researchers can provide a detailed description of the study process and context to create a possibility for transferring the findings to other similar settings (ibid).

Moreover, Lietz and Zayas (2018) posit that the findings from qualitative research can be useful to social work theory, education, policy, practice, and future research. Hence, despite the fact that this study involves few study participants (4 persons) using non-probability purposive sampling, the authors, as much as possible, have provided detailed descriptions of every step taken in each stage of the research process. Thus, other researchers or professionals can use this account to help them judge the transferability of the findings, for example, to expand future research and social work practice concerning undocumented immigrants in different parts of Sweden.

4.6 Ethical considerations

The research process followed ethical considerations, where the study participants have the right to voluntary participation, which has to be specified in informed written and oral consent (Gilchrist &

Schinke, 2001; Vetenskapsrådet, 2017). The ethical considerations also comprise confidentiality:

regarding who can access the collected information and how it will be used; and anonymity of participants’ identity (ibid).

The study participants, in advance, received the consent letter which explains the purpose of the study; about voluntary participation and their right to quit at any stage; about anonymity, that their identity is kept confidential; also including researchers’ and study supervisor’s contact details (see below in appendix II). Additionally, the participants also got an oral explanation, on the consent, at the start of the interview, as well. In order to secure the anonymity and confidentiality of the interview data, the video part of the interview recordings was deleted immediately after the interview, while the audio recordings are supposed to be destroyed at the end of the study. The researchers also ensured the anonymity of the study participants by not revealing the real names of the study participants or any other private information in the thesis.

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4.7 Limitations of the study

According to Grinnell and Unrau (2018), there are limitations in every qualitative study, where some may be unavoidable, and some may be discovered at a later stage of the research process. But the researchers should identify the limitations that can be discovered early in the research process and make out the possibility to avoid or minimize them (ibid). The main limitation the authors could identify in this study is time limitations. For this reason, a small sample (only four interviewees) is chosen to minimize its effect. The time limitation has also affected the sampling combination. The authors had difficulties including more than one social worker, which could have contributed to gathering richer data.

Another limitation of this study was related to language. The authors searched to their best level to find the most relevant previous studies written in the English language. But they could not make use of all available previous research, particularly not literature written in the Swedish language (authors’

third language). Concerning study participants, since the authors of this study preferred to do the interview in the English language, it has affected the search for participants at some points. The authors also recognize that some linguistic errors may occur in writing the essay since English is not the authors’ first language. Programs such as LanguageTool and Grammarly Premium have been utilized to lessen any possible errors. The authors also received assistance from one person who has English proficiency, which was strongly helpful.

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CHAPTER 5 – RESULT

In this chapter, the results from the interview are presented as organized in themes. As explained in the “tools of analysis section” (in chapter 4), a theory-driven coding process was applied to identify relevant results from the interview data as illustrated in the following table:

Table 5.1 Process and identification of study results from interview data

Source: authors, Guillén & Kebede (2021)

In presenting the results, to keep the identity of the study participants, interviewed, anonymous, they are represented by codes as “participants 1, 2, 3, and 4”.

Participant 1 is working with a child rights organization (and engaged in an online network with other professionals to support undocumented youth as a volunteer)

Participant 2 is engaged in a civil society organization that help asylum seekers and undocumented immigrants (as a volunteer)

Participant 3 is engaged in an NGO that help immigrants (including undocumented immigrants) Participant 4 is working with social services.

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When quoting from their words, a symbol […] is used in place of words or parts of sentences removed to shorten long sentences or to select or connect relevant ideas.

5.1 Inadequate rights

This first theme aims to account for how inadequate rights affect accessing services in Sweden, which in this study is a legal barrier undocumented immigrants face. The services referred to here include healthcare, education, housing, and employment.

According to the interview results, undocumented immigrants have the right to limited services. The study participants explained that the children have the right to healthcare and school, and the adults have the right to acute healthcare. But the adults do not have the right to education; they are not permitted to work, and they cannot rent a house legally. One of the participants explained the inadequate rights as follows:

“They always have the right if it's an emergency healthcare […]. They don't get the right to education, and it's also hard to get [...] a job here; and they don't have [a] Social Security number also, so they're not in the system, you know that is a big issue regarding housing...”

(Participant 4).

According to the participants, the only option undocumented immigrants have is to work illegally, which has many risks, and it is also difficult to find.

“They are depending on finding black jobs, which also is illegal of course.” (Participant 3)

They added that many depend on other people or organizations who can help them since they do not have access to social security. Participant 3 described the lack of access to financial support for undocumented immigrant families as follows:

“You can't work. You can't study; [..] you have nothing. But, like some of them are very lucky to have, maybe a family member here [who has a job and a permission to stay]; so they can help each other.

But it's not like that for everyone.” (Participant 3)

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Participant 4 add about the topic:

“We always have that responsibility to care for [families] in desperate need of shelter or support of any kind. But with families whose permit has been rejected, the biggest problem is that they are not recognized; they don't have the right from the social services to get that support, [..] because they have to leave the country. We contact the ‘[Local and international NGOs- anonymized] who can perhaps provide some kind of support for these families. (Participant 4)

Participant 1, who helps undocumented children and youth, explains how this affects families with children, that it becomes difficult for the children to understand the situation, and they get confused.

“And for undocumented families […] the children wonder why can't we get this? Why do we have to move all the time? Why are we so different from my friends? Why cannot we buy these things, and the parents have to say that, but we have no money at all. We cannot do that. It is [a] very confusing situation for children.” (Participant 1)

The participant also described the impact in the life of unaccompanied youth:

“When they get undocumented, they lose it all; so, they are living with no money, no shelter, no rights […]. We had these students sleeping outdoors in the night. Before that they had been in school, studying hard and everything. And then when they became undocumented, they just lost it all. They did not come to school, some of them started with drugs and some of them sold drugs. [They] started to deal drugs because they had to get money in some way.” (Participant 1)

In relation to human rights, three of the participants think that the human rights of undocumented immigrants are jeopardized. From participant 1’s words:

“Uh, human rights are, I mean they are for everybody of course, but when you become undocumented, it's like they are not for you anymore. Under the Human Rights Convention, they say that it's for everybody and no matter what legal status you've got. But when it comes to our Swedish laws, they are not for undocumented, [for example, in Uppsala,] there are no shelters for like undocumented at all [...] And since we are not offering shelters for everybody, and I mean in a way it is discriminating” (Participant 1)

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Participant 3 added to the matter:

“There are no human rights for those people. They can't use anything, so [...] like nothing is possible in their situation. So yeah, it's the lack of human rights, I think” (Participant 3)

Apart from this, the interview results show a difference among cities in the availability of services that undocumented immigrants can access. The participants recognize that although there are schools where undocumented children can attend, hospitals that give services to the general public, and shelters for the homeless, where undocumented immigrants can also get some help. But, not all cities or regions have services that are conducive for this group. For example, comparing the cities like Gävle (medium-sized city) to Uppsala (big sized city) or Stockholm (Capital/biggest city), it is different. Participant 1 talked about the availability of health centers (through local NGOs) supported by the municipality that openly gives services [targeted] to undocumented immigrants in Uppsala and Stockholm. On the other hand, as participant 2 confirmed, there are no such NGO healthcare centers in Gävle. Another example: participant 1 mentioned municipality projects in Stockholm that help undocumented immigrants with shelters:

“In […] Stockholm municipality [..]they have shelters for undocumented through the [a local NGO- anonymized]. But in Uppsala, we do not.” (Participant 1)

In other respects, when inquiring how the COVID-19 pandemic acted as a barrier factor against undocumented immigrants regarding their access to services, the interview participants have expressed their views, saying it has affected this group significantly and in many ways. Participant 1 reflected on the COVID-19 situation in relation to the health of unaccompanied undocumented children, as follows:

“That was a big problem with shelter, because yes, they closed sometimes; and also a lot of our homeless young people [..] they stayed with someone that was over 70 years old, and all of a sudden you know the risk group they had to be isolated and these young people couldn't really stay with them.

That's also why many of them moved together in like one room, [...] just to stay somewhere.”

(Participant 1)

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And about housing:

“I got in contact with some undocumented that they live together in a small apartment, and one got sick, and of course since they live in one room, a lot of people together, everybody got sick, so it is not easy to be isolated at all.” (Participant 1)

When asked about the COVID-19 situation as related to accessing services, participant 2 responded the following:

“Yes, of course, it makes life more difficult. Many of these people [...] have to seek for black jobs, and the Corona situation makes it even more difficult, and that is one thing and about contact with us [...] I can't meet people anymore. I used to meet people at the big library, but now that is impossible. Even if I should dare to go there, it is not allowed for people to sit down anymore because of Corona [..] It is difficult to meet in person.” (Participant 2)

Participant 3 shed more light on how the Covid-19 has been acting as a barrier, saying: in the past, they could attend Swedish classes in [an NGO, anonymized] and meet people. However, now, with the regulations [to prevent COVID-19], it is no longer possible.

5.2 Lack of information or directives

This theme describes how a lack of information or directives becomes a barrier for undocumented immigrants accessing services.

From the interview, lack of information about the rights of this group among workers in public services is one area undocumented immigrants encounter hurdles about in accessing services. For example, participant 2 recounted:

“They have [the] right to healthcare, [….] But the personnel do not always know the rules. So, it can happen that they [say] no, you have no right.” (Participant 2)

On the other hand, as explained by the study participants, undocumented immigrants lack information about the services that are allowed for them and other useful information. Participant 1 argued that they cannot get information directly from its source. The participant clarified that when new laws

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