The meeting in Brussels followed a video meeting held two weeks ago on the initiative of Finland. At that meeting, the Ministers agreed to enhance practical work on innovative solutions, including establishing a return hub or other forms of arrangements in third countries. Norway, as chair of the working group, updated the Ministers on the progress.

During the meeting, the Nordic Ministers discussed and decided to continue to work on Sweden’s initiative regarding the expulsion of foreign nationals convicted of rape, even if they are recognised refugees under the Refugee Convention.

-The Nordic Countries have common priorities and objectives and it makes sense that we also work together to strengthen our cooperation. I am happy that my Nordic colleagues share the intention to enable expulsion in more cases than today. This is paramount to protect our societies and migration systems”, Sweden’s Minister for Migration Johan Forssell says.

The Ministers agreed on the importance of continuing a close Nordic cooperation on issues related to migration and return.

Due to the ongoing national elections, Denmark participated at technical level as an observer.