Skuggsamhällets välfärdssystem : Papperslösa som välfärdsstatens blinda fläck och den ideella sektorns byråkratisering

This study explores undocumented migrant’s access to social welfare and income support distributed by the non-profit and public sector in Stockholm. The study is conducted through interviews with representatives from the non-profit sector whose organisations and networks come in contact with undocumented migrants. According to Swedish law the social services have a responsibility to assist everyone who temporarily resides within the county. Consequently undocumented migrants have the right to assistance in acute situations. According to the testimonies given from the non-profit sector undocumented migrants have much difficulties acquiring all forms of aid from the social services. The respondents experiences show a multi-layered complex of problems giving reason for bureaucrats representing the public authority narrowing their services to undocumented migrants. The main focal points presented in this study are bureaucrats confusion regarding their own mission in relation to the migration board as well as the services restricted resources. Since undocumented migrants have difficulties claiming their rights in regard to the public sector, many turn to the non-profit sector for support. The result in the study shows that the non- profit sector functions as an informal social service bureau without the economical or legal framework to support it.