Families Across Borders Prevalence and Characteristics of Transnational Families in Malmö

Abstract

This exploratory study examines transnational family (TNF) relations in Malmö and offers one of the first quantitative insights into this phenomenon in Sweden. Despite data limitations, the findings point to several important patterns. Nearly half of all respondents report having family members abroad, indicating that transnational ties constitute a substantial part of Malmö’s family landscape. These ties are most common among the foreign‑born population but are also present among second‑generation and Swedish‑born residents, suggesting that TNF relations extend beyond migration-driven family separation. Almost one third of Malmö residents maintain frequent cross‑border contact, which, in light of existing research, likely involves emotional and practical caregiving. The data further suggests a temporal dimension: more recent arrivals report higher levels of transnational ties than long‑term residents. Taken together, the results demonstrate that transnational family life is widespread, varied, and significant in Malmö, underscoring the need for further, especially longitudinal, research.