Refugee Integration and Governance in the Nordic-Baltic Region

This report summarizes the key findings from a research project on the integration, labor market participation, governance, and challenges faced by Ukrainian refugees in Norway, Sweden, Finland, Estonia, and Lithuania following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022.

The INFLUX project is a result of special commission which NordForsk received from the Nordic Council of Ministers secretariat to fund research supporting activities with relevance mainly for the integration of refugees from Ukraine in the Nordic countries.

The study highlights the critical role of social ties, education, and labor market integration. While Nordic and Baltic countries have made commendable efforts, significant challenges remain in addressing systemic barriers. Policies must prioritize long-term integration by balancing transnational ties with local connections, ensuring equal opportunities, and fostering sustainable governance structures.

The project has produced seven policy briefs with in-depth analysis of the field. Six papers have been submitted or are close to being submitted, and one chapter of one book is in press. This report summarizes the results, and the key findings have been categorized into three main themes: Processes of integration – young people and their families, integration into labor markets, and refugee and migration governance. For more information, please read the policy briefs in their entirety.