Swedish Migration Minister Johan Forssell Proposes Deportation for Migrants Who Support Terrorist Groups; Calls Grow for Equal Enforcement Across All Migration Statuses
In response to recent pro-Gaza demonstrations where flags of Hamas and Hezbollah were reportedly displayed, Swedish Migration Minister Johan Forssell has asserted that non-citizens who support terrorist groups should not remain in Sweden. Forssell emphasized that while Sweden values freedom of expression, the country should not tolerate actions that support terrorism.
“We have a great freedom of expression here in Sweden,” Forssell said, “but paying tribute to terrorist groups crosses a line. Such individuals should not be in Sweden. We want to change the law to make deportation possible in these cases.”
Forssell’s remarks come amid increasing scrutiny of immigration policies across Europe. He proposed legislation changes to allow deportation of individuals who express support for terrorist organizations, noting it would be “unreasonable” for non-citizens who celebrate terror to be granted Swedish residency or citizenship.
Equal Treatment for All, Says Hirvonen
In response, Annika Hirvonen, the migration policy spokesperson, advocated for a more consistent approach to supporting terrorist organizations, arguing that such acts should be criminalized for everyone—citizens, refugees, and tourists alike. Hirvonen underscored that Sweden’s laws should apply equally to all, without exceptions based on migration status.
“Freedom of expression should apply to everyone who is here,” she said. “Anyone committing such acts should face consequences, whether they are Swedish citizens or tourists.”
European Countries Tighten Citizenship and Security Rules
Sweden is not alone in reassessing citizenship policies. Estonia recently introduced measures that restrict citizenship for those with criminal records, particularly repeat offenders. In Germany, six federal states, including Bavaria and Saxony, are pressing for stricter rules to block citizenship for migrants involved in antisemitic crimes, further highlighting a trend across Europe toward stronger security standards in immigration policies.
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