Swedes

Almost one-fifth of Sweden’s 9.6 million inhabitants have roots in other countries. As a result — and despite the challenge of segregation — the growing number of immigrants makes Sweden an open, international and multicultural society. This is reflected not least in the country’s cultural and culinary development.

Two million people in Sweden are aged under 18. Most of them take for granted free schooling, an active social life, and easy access to nature and the internet. The elderly represent a growing share of the population: 18 percent have passed the retirement age of 65 and are pensioners. In 2010 life expectancy was 83 for women and 79 for men.

The Swedish population is expected to grow by about 80,000 people during 2011 because of immigration and an increase in the birthrate. Over the next 10 years the population is expected to grow by about 600,000 people, and in 2021 is likely to pass the 10 million mark. Sweden has not had such a high birth rate since 1993, with 1.97 children per woman. The most common names for newborns are Maja for girls and Oscar for boys.