Key Highlights
- The UK is set to model its new immigration system after the Danish approach.
- Shabana Mahmood plans to reduce incentives for migration while making it easier to expel those without right to be in the country.
- UK officials have visited Denmark to study its stricter rules on family reunification and temporary refugee stays.
- The Danish government has implemented tougher laws, including restrictions on family reunions and returning refugees to their home countries when safe.
UK Seeks Inspiration from Denmark’s Stricter Immigration Policies
The UK is looking to Denmark for inspiration as it prepares to overhaul its immigration system. Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood plans to introduce significant changes later this month, with a focus on reducing incentives that draw people to the country while making it easier to expel those who do not have the right to be there.
In September, Mahmood promised at the Labour conference that she would “do whatever it takes” to regain control of Britain’s borders. Her plans are influenced by Denmark’s approach, which has seen a significant reduction in successful asylum claims and stricter rules on family reunification.
Danish Model for UK
UK officials have dispatched senior Home Office staff to Copenhagen to study the Danish system. These visits aim to understand how Denmark manages its borders more effectively. According to official sources, Mahmood wants to replicate some of these measures in the UK.
In Denmark, refugees are often given temporary stays rather than permanent residency.
The government has also tightened rules for family reunification, requiring both partners to be at least 24 years old and pass a Danish language test. Moreover, refugees living in areas designated as “parallel societies” face restrictions on reuniting with their families.
Labour’s Political Strategy
The UK Labour Party is considering adopting stricter immigration policies for both practical and political reasons. In 2015, Denmark faced a similar situation where a center-left government struggled against a rising right-wing populist party due to concerns over immigration. The Danish Social Democrats adopted tough measures that helped them return to power.
Labour ministers see parallels with the UK’s current political climate, where Reform UK is leading in polls.
By adopting stricter policies, Labour hopes to neutralize a toxic issue and gain support for other progressive initiatives. However, some Labour MPs remain wary of implementing Danish-style restrictions, fearing it could alienate their base.
UK’s Stance on Expulsion
The UK government is also considering changes to how it deals with foreign criminals under the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR). Like Denmark, they aim to make it easier to expel such individuals. Mahmood may seek to meet with Danish Immigration Minister Rasmus Stoklund to discuss common ground.
While some Labour MPs argue that adopting the Danish model is necessary for political gain, others believe it could be a “dangerous path” and perpetuate racial discrimination. Nevertheless, there are indications that key figures within the party support exploring similar policies.
Conclusion
The UK’s proposed overhaul of its immigration system reflects a growing trend towards stricter controls influenced by Denmark’s successful policies. As UK officials continue to study Danish practices, they aim to strike a balance between security and humanitarian considerations while addressing domestic political pressures.
