Swedish government aims to deport 155 convicted Syrian criminals

Sweden’s government is taking new steps to deport 155 convicted Syrian criminals, with a technical delegation from Syria expected in Stockholm this spring, SVT Nyheter reports.

Migration Minister Johan Forssell (Moderate Party) visited Damascus in November to discuss requirements for Syria to accept its citizens facing deportation from Sweden. He described the talks as focusing on “very practical issues,” including the issuance of travel documents and identity verification.

“These are often very serious crimes,” Forssell said, adding that deportations cannot currently be enforced because the individuals refuse to return.

A Syrian delegation of officials is set to meet with representatives from the Swedish Migration Agency and police to examine how Sweden handles migration issues. The government has allocated three million kronor (approximately €260,000) for 2026 to fund a preliminary study and “relationship-building” activities with Syrian authorities, including the delegation’s visit.

When asked whether Sweden might link development aid to Syria’s cooperation on deportations, Forssell stated: “If [Syria] wants to receive Swedish development aid, it is important that they also listen to Sweden’s interests. That could naturally become part of the discussion.” He clarified, however, that humanitarian aid would not be conditional.

Syria is a priority country in the government’s repatriation efforts, alongside Somalia, where 56 convicted criminals face deportation. Sweden, together with the EU Commission, has also invited Taliban representatives to Brussels to discuss the deportation of Afghan citizens from the EU. According to Forssell, around 200 convicted Afghans in Sweden have received deportation orders.