Faith and Integration: Beyond the State: Muslim and Christian Congregations as Non-State Actors in Migrant Integration in Örebro, Sweden
2026 (English)Independent thesis Advanced level (degree of Master (Two Years)), 20 credits / 30 HE credits
Student thesis
Abstract [en]
This study examines the role of religious congregations in supporting young adult migrants as they settle into Swedish society. The research focuses on a Muslim congregation and the Church of Sweden in Örebro, investigating how these congregations serve as pillars of support and bridge-builders. The study explores how they help young people find their place, access practical support, and balance multiple cultural identities. Qualitative interviews were conducted with religious leaders and active members of the congregations. The analysis draws on Dimitrios Katsikas’ (2010) theory of non-state authority and global governance, with particular attention to the perspectives of Peter Beyer, Niklas Luhmann, Charles Hirschman, and Mark Juergensmeyer. The results indicate that the church and the mosque provide much more than a place for prayer. They serve as essential social safety nets, offering language practice, homework assistance, networking opportunities, and existential guidance. The findings also demonstrate that these congregations enable young adult migrants to maintain their religious and cultural identities while encouraging integration into Swedish society. However, notable differences emerged: young Muslims often experience significantly greater societal pressure and exclusion than Christian migrants, indicating that the integration process varies considerably depending on background. The study concludes that religious congregations fill a substantial gap by acting as intermediaries between individuals and the state, addressing social and human needs that the secular welfare system does not always meet. Further research is recommended to examine how young adult migrants shape their identities and how religion influences their perceptions of belonging, adaptation, and integration in a new country and society.
Place, publisher, year, edition, pages
2026. , p. 80
Keywords [en]
Integration, religion, young adult migrants, assimilation, non-state actors, religious congregations
National Category
Religious Studies
Identifiers
URN: urn:nbn:se:uu:diva-589692OAI: oai:DiVA.org:uu-589692DiVA, id: diva2:2070988
Educational program
Master Programme in Religion in Peace and Conflict
Supervisors
Examiners
2026-06-162026-06-122026-06-16Bibliographically approved