The Establishment of Syrian Refugees in the Swedish Public Sector Since 2015 : A qualitative study of establishment processes and experiences.

Abstract The aim of this thesis is to explore how Syrian refugees have established themselves in the Swedish public sector since 2015, focusing on the factors that facilitate or hinder the establishment process. The study is based on qualitative interviews with 15 Syrian refugees working in various parts of the public sector, including health care, social services, and administrative roles. The analysis is grounded in institutional theory and social capital theory, providing insights into the structural and social mechanisms that shape their pathways to employment. The findings show that language requirements and the validation of foreign qualifications are significant barriers to entry and career progression within the public sector. At the same time, social networks function as important resources for accessing employment, but they can also create limitations by confining individuals to lower-status jobs. Workplace culture and leadership attitudes play a key role in shaping the sense of inclusion and opportunities for advancement. Factors such as gender, age, and religious expression further influence the establishment process. By combining institutional theory and social capital theory, the study provides a deeper understanding of the mechanisms that enable or hinder the establishment of Syrian refugees in the Swedish public sector. The findings highlight the need for improved validation systems, continued language support, intercultural competence training for managers, and more inclusive recruitment channels.