The Influence of Policies and Programs on Identity

Abstract: In this qualitative study, interpretive research will be conducted in order to examine subjective experiences of Middle Eastern immigrants in Sweden as well as their perception of how six selected policies and programs affect their sense of belonging and identity. Individual in-depth interviews were conducted to obtain data for this study. Specifically, in this study, the following policies and programs were examined in relation to identity change and sense of belonging: (1) Language learning policies, (2) Education and training programs, (3) Employment and participation in the labour market, (4) Social networking, (5) Right to plan a future, and (6) Naturalization policies. Based on the empirical data gathered from the interviews, only a few of these policies were shown to be effective, while the remainder were evidently ineffective. However, certain 'complementary elements' were mentioned during the data collection process (1) consciously enhancing national identity on behalf of ethnic identity, (2) name changing. This shows the importance of studying migration aspects from the perspective of the immigrants. Also, this study encourages to further examine the relationship between strong national identity, politics, development, and economic growth. It encourages for future research to explore how national and international policies and programs can effectively lead to identity change among immigrants and what the consequences and outcomes may be.