The Challenges and Opportunities of Immigrant Architects in Sweden
Every year, architects from all corners of the globe are compelled to relocate and seek new beginnings in foreign lands, driven by the pursuit of justice, better job prospects, equality, or respect. Developed countries often emerge as their preferred destinations. While the media often portrays these countries as havens, the intricacies of migration for architects remain shrouded in obscurity. Sweden, a developed nation nestled in the global north, frequently becomes the aspiration for those seeking fulfilling careers in a respectful environment with friendly colleagues – an ambition I too harbored before setting foot in Sweden. Many individuals, especially architects, depart their homelands with impressive careers and a wealth of experience. Despite hailing from less developed nations, they bear invaluable experiences from their involvement in significant projects. Regrettably, these experiences sometimes go unrecognized or are undervalued by the global north.
As a recently arrived architect with over 12 years of experience in my home country, I’ve encountered the Swedish architecture community as a somewhat insular and homogenous society. My persistent efforts have demonstrated that even after four years, it remains exceedingly challenging to integrate into this community and access the support necessary to find my footing.
Architects with established firms and teams back home often find themselves knocking on closed doors at smaller Swedish companies. There appears to be a missed opportunity to harness the remarkable expertise these architects bring with them. From my vantage point, it is evident that the field of architecture in Sweden lags, while other sectors, especially industries, are sprinting toward the future. Architecture firms seem to move at a sluggish pace, and in some instances, even regress. Popular TV programs featuring architects sometimes encourage individuals with no formal education or knowledge of architecture, sustainability, or materials to design and build their own homes or apartments.
This diminishes the role of architects, who should ideally serve as leaders and guides in shaping our societies, particularly given the complex challenges the world faces today.
Tragically, foreign architects often encounter unexpected challenges such as inequality, disrespect, and neglect. They are forced to start afresh despite possessing vast experience. Confronting a new culture and language adds another layer of complexity to their journey. A cursory examination of company websites reveals that the majority of firms remain predominantly native, except those using the image of foreign employees, particularly women, to portray themselves as international and equitable enterprises. In contrast, fields like IT have genuinely embraced internationalism.
Sweden, as an immigrant nation, confronts diverse challenges including globalization, climate change, migration, and the integration of various cultures – all elements architects must contemplate. Rather than overlooking or sidelining the experiences that foreign architects bring with them, the architecture community could greatly benefit from their insights. To secure a better future, we need architects who are committed to sustainability, and equality, and who lead the way in creating an inclusive and environmentally conscious built environment.
Hamid Hosseini
Arkitekt SAR/MSA
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