Sweden Allocates 70 Million Kronor to Accelerate Migrant Returns
The Swedish government has announced the allocation of 70 million kronor to the International Organization for Migration (IOM) to expedite the return process of migrants, particularly from Afghanistan, Syria, and Somalia. This decision aims to increase the rate of returns and reduce irregular migration.
Swedish Television (SVT Nyheter), citing Johan Forssell, the country’s Minister of Migration, reported that these funds will be used to strengthen the mechanisms for returning migrants from countries such as Iraq, Somalia, Uzbekistan, Afghanistan, Syria, Tunisia, and Libya. According to Forssell, only a portion of asylum seekers are recognized as having protective grounds.
Forssell stated that currently only one-third of asylum seekers genuinely qualify for protection, but the return process faces difficulties. He emphasized that some individuals are unwilling to return, and in some cases, implementing returns is not straightforward.
According to Sweden’s Minister of Migration, these challenges sometimes stem from a lack of valid identification documents or the absence of entry permits to the origin country. He added that part of this funding could be used to verify identities and build administrative capacity in this area.
Furthermore, providing basic conditions for returnees, including shelter, food, and healthcare services, is another area where this financial aid will be utilized. The International Organization for Migration, as one of the main institutions managing migration flows, implements return and reintegration programs in many countries.
