As with any statistic, sometimes there are unexpected nuances in the details. Since someone brought up Sweden having seen an increase in inequality I thought I would share a little more detail about this specific example.

Sweden has received in round numbers about 10% of its population in immigration from mostly poor countries over the past decade or so.

This has probably had the effect of decreasing global inequality as being in the bottom half in Sweden is quite comfortable compared to many of the poorer countries.

At the same time, it has also most probably increased local inequality even after taking into account quite generous social programs for the recently arrived.

So here is an interesting example of a country which has followed a policy mostly championed by the political side who is most passionate about inequality, resulting in an increase in national inequality.

Berkshire Hathaway FAQ

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