Sweden is advocating for a strategic discussion regarding the temporary protection status granted to Syrians in Europe, citing the lifting of EU sanctions against Syria and the increasing number of voluntary returns. Minister for Migration Johan Forssell announced this initiative ahead of a ministerial meeting in Luxembourg.

Forssell intends to urge Denmark, which is set to assume the EU presidency in two weeks, to prioritize this matter. He emphasized the need for a unified European approach to repatriation, including the potential use of shared resources such as repatriation flights.

The Swedish minister highlighted that many Syrians residing in Sweden and other European nations are under temporary protection. He noted that while many Syrians in Sweden have gained citizenship, approximately 20,000 have not.

The repatriation of foreign criminals, particularly those from Syria, is a top priority for the Swedish government’s migration policy. Forssell asserted the importance of removing these individuals from Europe and returning them to Syria.

Echoing Forssell’s sentiment, Danish Minister for Immigration and Integration Kaare Dybvad Bek expressed his agreement that many Syrians should return home following the change of regime. Bek also noted an increased interest among Syrians in Denmark to return voluntarily.

Bek affirmed his commitment to raising the issue of Syrian repatriation during Denmark’s upcoming EU presidency, aligning with his Swedish counterpart’s objectives. He emphasized the broader importance of repatriation discussions and identified Syria as a key area of focus.