#Finnish minister's #Somalia visit sparks deportation policy debate

Finnish Interior Minister Meri Rantanen visited Somalia on January 21 to discuss deportation agreements for Somali asylum seekers, a move critics say reflects the Finns Party's political priorities ahead of Finland’s April municipal and county elections. The visit included meetings with Somali Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre and Minister of Internal Security Abdullahi Sheikh Ismail, focusing on security cooperation and return arrangements.

Rantanen emphasised the importance of establishing "effective return mechanisms for Somali nationals denied residency" and highlighted Somalia’s role in regional counter-terrorism. She acknowledged the contributions of Somali security forces in stabilising the region, stating that Finland "appreciates the long-standing cooperation" with Somalia.

Finland has temporarily suspended bilateral development aid to Somalia, citing the lack of progress on deportation agreements. The Finnish government has tied future funding decisions to Somalia’s cooperation on returns, a move that has drawn criticism for politicising aid.