UK seeks inspiration from Denmark to shake up immigration system

UK seeks inspiration from Denmark to shake up immigration system

The upcoming announcement from Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood regarding changes to the immigration and asylum system is anticipated to be significant, drawing inspiration from Denmark’s stringent approach, considered one of the toughest in Europe. Officials have been examining Denmark’s stricter regulations on family reunions and limiting most refugees to temporary residency. Mahmood aims to decrease incentives attracting individuals to the UK while streamlining the process of expelling those without legal grounds to stay in the country. However, some members of her own party oppose the Danish model, expressing concerns that it veers into “hardcore” territory and echoes far-right sentiments.

Notably, Denmark’s success in drastically reducing successful asylum claims to a 40-year low, excluding the pandemic-related travel limitations in 2020, has caught Mahmood’s attention. She dispatched senior Home Office officials to Copenhagen to study the Danish system and its potential application in the UK. While Denmark’s approach involves offering substantial sums for asylum seekers to voluntarily return to their home countries, the UK government is carefully examining the strategies outlined by Danish officials. The emphasis on temporary residency for most refugees and stricter requirements for settlement rights and family reunions in Denmark has piqued the interest of UK officials.

Denmark’s approach to immigration regulation, characterized by stricter integration rules and a focus on protecting Danish society’s integrity, has led to a political transformation in the country. Labour ministers are considering the lessons that can be learned from Denmark’s success in addressing immigration concerns, neutralizing contentious issues, and creating space for progressive policies in other areas. The UK’s interest in adopting a more restrictive stance on immigration reflects a political landscape reminiscent of Denmark’s political evolution in recent years.

Acknowledging the differences between the UK and Denmark, critics highlight the unique challenges faced by each country, including distinct political systems and geographical circumstances. While some in the Labour Party embrace the idea of incorporating Danish-inspired policies, others are more cautious, emphasizing the need to balance immigration reform with progressive values. The ongoing debate within Labour underscores the complex nature of immigration policy and its impact on political dynamics

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