Ethnic minorities and the planning system in Britain and Sweden

This article, based on a questionnaire survey among planning authorities in Britain and Sweden, compares the sensitivity of the planning systems to the needs and aspirations of ethnic minorities. It also examines how ethnic disadvantage and discrimination impinge upon the working of the planning system. Despite different histories of immigration and politics of 'race', planning practice in both countries is notably devoid of widespread evidence of efforts to make the planning system more sensitive to the needs of ethnic minorities. Moreover, the current political uncertainty with regards to immigration and immigration policies inhibits such efforts. Nevertheless, there are differences in detail between the two countries which it is argued reflect differences in planners' professional organization and political mobilization among ethnic minorities.