"Am I a Migrant?" Experiences of Return Migration and (Re)integration in Sweden The Underexplored Phenomenon of Return Migration Among Swedish Citizens and Their Families

Abstract

This article examines the underexplored phenomenon of return migration among Swedish citizens and their families. This group is often excluded from the public debate on migration and integration, despite constituting a significant share of recent arrivals to Sweden. The article draws on an ongoing research project that uses narrative interviews to explore the experiences of members of 18 families who have returned after periods of employment abroad. Here, we focus specifically on adult returnees who have grown up in Sweden. The article shows that return and (re)integration is not a straightforward process, challenging assumptions of a privileged, insider status among returnees. Returnees frequently encounter discrepancies between expectations (of an easy return) and lived experiences across domains such as employment, education, social networks and culture. By illustrating that return migration involves complex negotiations of home, identity and belonging, the article highlights the need to challenge underlying assumptions relating to the category of migrant and the concept of integration in Sweden.