Denmark has significantly reduced asylum applications by implementing strict criteria, rapid processing, and swift deportations for those without a valid reason to seek asylum, according to Rasmus Stoklund, the country's former immigration and integration minister. Stoklund, whose policies contributed to a one-third drop in asylum applications in Denmark, shared insights suggesting the UK could learn from this approach.
In 2023, Denmark had an average of 57 asylum claims per 100,000 people, comparable to the UK's 55. However, the figures have diverged dramatically since then, with the UK's rate nearly tripling to 145 per 100,000, while Denmark's has fallen to 40 per 100,000.
Stoklund stated that Denmark has made its immigration policies deliberately unappealing. "What we have done is to make clear that asylum seekers without a valid reason are not welcome in Denmark," he said. The process now involves rigorous checks, quick decisions, and immediate deportation for those whose claims are rejected, particularly those coming from safe countries.
"We are sending a signal to human smugglers and migrants considering trying to get into Denmark that it is not that easy anymore, and we have strict rules and regulations that will be used and will probably get you sent back," Stoklund explained. Approximately 50 individuals are deported weekly from Denmark.
Denmark's shift began in 2019 with the center-left Social Democratic party's focus on preserving Danish identity. Policies included a ban on the burka and new rules requiring immigrants to learn Danish or risk losing benefits.
Stoklund suggested that the UK might be too lenient in its approach. "Your right to benefits is also very low and with these incentives the aim is to show that Denmark is not an attractive place to come to and maybe that's where the UK is going wrong," he commented. He also noted stricter regulations for family reunification in Denmark, contrasting it with a recent case in the UK where a single refugee was able to bring 22 family members.
Stoklund's successor, Morten Bødskov, continues this hardline stance, recently proposing a ban on the Islamic call to prayer in parts of Denmark.
The effects of Denmark's previous immigration policies were observed in some Copenhagen districts, where residents reported increased crime and rental costs, alongside a perceived decrease in social cohesion. Local mayors in areas like Ishøj, Rødovre, and Brøndby have expressed concerns about capacity for new arrivals due to housing shortages and existing demographic compositions.
"We realised a long time ago that we wouldn't be able to maintain a high level of social cohesion and trust in our society if we accepted migrants from countries who would end up being unemployed or turn to crime," Stoklund concluded.