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From Kampala to Stockholm: A Growing Shift Toward Stricter Migration Controls

08:49 PM, 12/05/2025
From Kampala to Stockholm: A Growing Shift Toward Stricter Migration Controls

Uganda this week tightened immigration rules, joining a number of African countries that have recently announced migration curbs. Chad, Egypt, Ethiopia and Kenya are among those introducing restrictions, with governments citing economic, security and political pressures. The shift is mirrored in some formerly pro-migration Western parties: Sweden’s Social Democrats have adopted tougher policies, an approach their integration spokesperson described as a response to changed realities. These moves signal a global reassessment of migration policy with uncertain consequences for refugees and host societies.

Growing Shift Toward Stricter Migration Policies

Uganda this week moved to tighten its immigration rules, highlighting a broader trend in which lower-income states and countries that once championed progressive asylum and refugee systems are adopting more restrictive stances. Kampala — long known for welcoming people fleeing conflicts across East Africa and as far away as Afghanistan, and for granting some refugees the right to work and access land to farm — has announced new limits amid rising domestic pressures.

Similar policy shifts have appeared elsewhere on the continent: Chad, Egypt, Ethiopia and Kenya have all introduced curbs on migration for varying reasons. Authorities have pointed to economic strain, security concerns and political pressures as factors shaping decisions to restrict inflows and tighten administrative rules.

The trend extends beyond Africa. Several former international proponents of liberal migration policies are also changing tack. In Sweden, the once-dominant Social Democrats have moved toward tougher immigration measures. The party’s spokesperson on integration, who is the daughter of Kurdish political refugees, said:

"I am not imitating far-right parties — the reality has changed."

These developments reflect a global reassessment of migration policy, balancing humanitarian commitments against domestic challenges such as resource constraints, social tensions and security considerations. The ultimate impact on refugees, host communities and international cooperation will depend on how new rules are implemented and whether governments pursue coordinated regional and international responses.

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