International students from non-EU countries should have the same opportunity to start their studies in Sweden in autumn 2020 as it have students from EU/EEA member states (as an exception to the entry ban to Sweden).

The entry ban currently in force in Sweden restricts all non-essential travels to Sweden in order to prevent further development of the COVID-19 outbreak. There is a list of exceptions that covers cases when travelers can enter the country despite the travel ban. The importance of such measures cannot be disputed, it is crucial that governments take action in order to mitigate the effect of the pandemic.

However, starting education is not covered by the list of exceptions to the travel ban as it is considered to be a non-essential reason for traveling which is not completely reasonable. Education and research is something that can change people’s lives significantly and depriving them from that opportunity might lead to serious negative effects in the way their life-path will develop. 

Because of this overlook international students from non-EU countries with new residence permits for studies are currently not allowed to enter the country to study and research. At the same time students and researches from EU/EEA member states have this opportunity. It cannot be deemed fair that students from one group of countries are favored before another when it comes to education and research.

A more reasonable solution could be to add an exception to the entry ban and allow international students from all countries with new residence permits to start their studies in Sweden in time. Starting research and education is an essential reason for traveling and deserves to be included in the list of exceptions from the entry ban.

On a personal level, I am very concerned about not staring my PhD in August as it might lead to me eventually losing the position. Being admitted to a PhD program in Sweden has felt as dream come true since I always aspired to research on the issue of sustainability and contribute to making a difference in the world. Having that opportunity to be put at risk causes a lot of stress. I feel that it is unfair that people that are truly passionate to research in Sweden and to enhance knowledge about such topical issues are given cold hand and thwarted just because of their country of origin. I am convinced that many other international students are experiencing the same anxiety and worry because such important plans get disrupted which can have an effect on the rest of their lives. That is why it is important to rise awareness about this so that appropriate measures can be taken by the authorities.

Please consider this call to action.

Best regards,

Passionate international student