Sweden has recently deported eight Somali nationals and is preparing to remove at least 15 more, as the government enforces its strictest immigration policies in decades. Somali community leaders warn that sending these individuals back could put them in serious danger.
The 15 slated for deportation are currently in Swedish prisons. They include people whose residency permits were not renewed and asylum seekers who have waited years—sometimes up to a decade—for a decision, says Younis Khalif from the Somali Community Association in Sweden.
“This push has been a priority for the new government,” Khalif told the BBC. “Among those affected are elderly people, children, and young adults, many of whom are employed and paying taxes, yet losing their right to stay.”
Community representatives plan to meet with Somalia’s embassy in Stockholm to discuss the issue and have already raised concerns with Swedish officials. Khalif notes that the previous government was more open to Somali voices, but the current administration has taken a tougher stance.
Since Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson’s coalition took office in 2022—backed by right-wing and anti-immigration allies—Sweden has tightened asylum rules and reduced refugee intake. In 2024, only 6,250 asylum seekers received residency, a 42% drop from earlier years and the lowest in nearly 40 years.
The government argues these changes are needed to manage budget pressures. However, critics like Khalif say financial reasons don’t justify deporting long-term residents who contribute to society.
There is growing concern that those returned to Somalia could face the very dangers they fled, including political unrest, ongoing conflict, and risks of militant recruitment.
“Somalia remains unstable, with extremists gaining ground,” Khalif said. “Young people sent back will struggle to find jobs and remain vulnerable. These are people who crossed deserts to find safety, only to be sent back into the same chaos. The Somali government must carefully consider the consequences.”
