Migration Minister Johan Forssell defends Swedish aid to Somalia despite criticism over high salaries and corruption. The opposition accuses the government of bribes in a deportation agreement. The government views the debate as a chance to highlight tougher migration policies.
Sweden's government has entered an agreement with Somalia on deportation cooperation, using Swedish aid millions to fund services in Somalia's government office. Reports indicate these services receive salaries over 100,000 kronor per month, but Migration Minister Johan Forssell does not know the recipients or why the salaries are so high. "I trust that the UN agency we cooperate with makes wise decisions," Forssell says.
Somalia ranks as the world's second most corrupt country, sparking strong criticism. Social Democrat Morgan Johansson calls it "pure bribe money" and has reported Forssell and migration committee chair Maria Dousa to parliament's constitutional committee on October 8, 2025. The government defends the deal and seeks more similar agreements with other countries to increase deportations from Sweden.
The debate erupted in October 2025, with Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson stating on October 3: "The only new thing is that aid is no longer unconditional." Analyst Mats Knutson notes the government shows no embarrassment and uses the scandal to emphasize a stricter immigration policy than the Social Democrats'. The agreement was announced around October 2, when it was also reported that Somalia's prime minister praised Hamas while receiving Swedish aid.
