The UK government is poised to draw significant inspiration from Denmark's hard-line approach to migration as it prepares for a fresh crackdown, Sky News can reveal.
The Danish 'Zero Refugees' Blueprint
Despite being led by a centre-left politician, Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen, for six years, Denmark has crafted some of Europe's most robust policies against illegal migration. This 'zero refugees' policy has not only garnered public support but has also fortified her position against right-wing political challengers.
The effectiveness of this system is stark. The number of successful asylum claims in Denmark has plummeted to a 40-year low, with a remarkable 95% of failed claimants being deported.
Controversial Policies Under Scrutiny
Among the more contentious measures the UK may consider is Denmark's so-called 'jewellery law'. This legislation permits the government to seize assets from asylum seekers, including valuables like jewellery, to help fund their stay in the country.
Another pivotal policy is the strategy previously labelled the 'ghetto package'. This initiative, now referred to by the Danish government as tackling 'parallel societies', designates areas with over 1,000 residents as such if more than 50% are 'immigrants and their descendants from non-Western countries'.
In these zones, new tenancies cannot be offered to non-EU migrants. If an area remains classified as a 'parallel society' after five years, local authorities are mandated to reduce the proportion of public housing to 40%.
From Asylum to Settlement: A Demanding Path
The Danish model ensures that the path to permanent residency is arduous. Initially, asylum seekers are granted only temporary, two-year protection. Those refused asylum are required to live in 'departure centres' to encourage voluntary return.
Residency status is not guaranteed; it can be revoked once a person's home country is deemed safe, with regular reviews facilitating deportations if conditions improve.
Eligibility for settlement usually comes only after eight years and is contingent on meeting all of the government's 'basic requirements'. These include being in long-term, full-time employment, having a high standard of Danish language proficiency, and not having claimed benefits within the previous three years.
Applicants must also meet two supplementary requirements, which involve demonstrating 'active citizenship' and earning above a specific salary threshold.
Tightening Family Reunification Rules
Denmark has also implemented stricter family reunification laws. Both the sponsor and their partner must be at least 24 years old, a rule designed to prevent forced marriages.
Additionally, the sponsor must provide a financial guarantee for their partner, and both individuals are required to pass a Danish language test.
In a move that will be of particular interest to UK policymakers, the Danish government passed a law in 2021 allowing newly arrived refugees to be moved to asylum centres in a partner country. This led to an agreement with Rwanda to explore setting up such a programme, though it is currently on hold.
