Sports Clubs in Sweden and Integration

Associational life is a key element of civic engagement in the Nordic countries, with voluntary organisations creating networks that facilitate social inclusion and community cohesion, and contribute to a resilient public sphere. The sports movement has a strong political presence in Sweden, notably to do with migrants’ integration. Sport has been touted as a “universal” language where individuals from diverse backgrounds can take part in something meaningful that does not require particular linguistic skills. This context is examined through a detailed case study of a local martial arts club, which reveals the potential and the limitations of sport clubs as integration projects, and outlines key considerations when engaging with marginalised groups.