Sweden Upholds Forced Deportations to Somalia Amid Controversy Over Aid Usage

Sweden continues to increase forced deportations of citizens to Somalia despite mounting criticism. As of November 2025, Sweden has deported 25 individuals to Somalia, with 14 of those removals related to criminal offenses, according to statistics from the Swedish Police Authority. This marks a significant rise compared to six deportations in 2023 and 29 in 2024.

Migration Minister Johan Forssell has reaffirmed that the Swedish government will persist with these deportations, highlighting the cooperation with Somalia as yielding “good results.” Forssell emphasized that the government aims to expand similar repatriation agreements with other countries.

Alongside the deportations, Sweden has redirected 100 million SEK in aid funds to Somalia to strengthen ties with the Somali government. Additionally, 5 million SEK has been allocated from the Justice Department for three government positions within Somalia, intended to build capacity for repatriation efforts. These funds are managed through the International Organization for Migration (IOM).

However, media reports have scrutinized this financial support, alleging misuse including payments to so-called "ghost workers"—individuals who do not perform actual work. Forssell rejected these claims, stating that reports from these positions indicate active work and reaffirming Sweden’s commitment to strict anti-corruption measures despite Somalia’s well-known corruption problems.

Forssell also indicated plans to condition more development aid on other countries’ willingness to accept increased deportations. This strategy reflects Sweden’s broader policy approach to migration enforcement and international cooperation.

The Migration Minister’s defense of both the deportations and aid allocation occurs amid public scrutiny, yet the government maintains that the policies deliver effective results and intend to continue and expand forced deportations in cooperation with foreign governments.