N
The United States is set to deport over 1.4 million non-American residents, including more than 11.000 European citizens. Among them are several individuals from the Nordic countries: 120 from Sweden, 45 from Denmark, 39 from Norway, 22 from Finland, and 5 from Iceland. The revelation has sparked concerns and raised questions among Nordic governments regarding the legal basis for these deportations.
Over 11.000 Europeans on ICE’s deportation List
According to data from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), 11.131 European citizens are currently on the non-detained docket with final removal orders. While the vast majority of those facing deportation originate from Latin America, a significant number of European citizens are also affected.
Among the European countries with the highest numbers are Romania (4.445), Poland (2.303), and Germany (571). While these numbers are relatively small compared to countries like Mexico (252.044) and Guatemala (253.413), the inclusion of Nordic citizens has drawn particular attention in their home countries.
Sweden’s response: Government seeks clarity
Swedish Migration Minister Johan Forssell (M) acknowledged the situation but stated that the government lacks detailed information about the 120 Swedish citizens affected.
“We are looking into the matter. We have not been able to delve deeper into it. We do not know who they are,” Forssell said, emphasizing that the Swedish Government will contact its embassy in Washington for further clarification.
The list, published by ICE and reported by Fox News, includes individuals who have received final removal notices and are now subject to deportation proceedings. The Swedish government is attempting to determine the legal status of these individuals and whether they have overstayed their visas or are undocumented.
Denmark, Norway, Finland, and Iceland also affected
The Danish government has yet to issue an official response regarding the 45 Danish citizens on the list. Similarly, Norway, which has 39 citizens facing deportation, is expected to engage with U.S. authorities for more information. Finland, with 22 individuals affected, and Iceland, with just 5, have not made public statements but are likely to monitor the situation closely.
Increased U.S. immigration crackdown
The deportations come amid intensified efforts by ICE to remove individuals who do not have legal status in the United States. Since the presidency of Donald Trump, ICE has ramped up operations to locate and detain undocumented immigrants. According to reports, U.S. authorities have detained over 7.400 individuals across multiple States in just 9 days.
Under Title 8 of the U.S. Code, ICE is authorized to remove individuals with final deportation orders. However, in some cases, deportations are delayed or prevented due to international agreements, asylum claims, or lack of cooperation from foreign governments.
Nordic Governments urged to take action
With the situation unfolding, Nordic governments may seek to negotiate the status of their citizens facing deportation. Some individuals may qualify for legal protection under international agreements, including asylum or protection under the Convention Against Torture.
For now, the Swedish Government has taken the first step in reaching out to its embassy in Washington. Other Nordics may follow suit as more information emerges about the individuals affected.
