Denmark as a guiding country for migration policy: a model with limits
In the media image: Christian Lue on Unsplash
Denmark is seen as an example of strict asylum policy within the European Union. Mark Klaassen, Assistant Professor of Immigration Law, warns in a ‘BNR’ article that the Danish model creates false expectations and offers little prospect of large-scale application.
Denmark has a strict asylum and migration policy and for years has been considered a building country in this area within Europe. This model is now being considered as a blueprint for new EU measures that will make it easier to place refugees who have exhausted all legal remedies in return hubs outside Europe. Klaassen emphasises, however, that this model cannot simply be copied. He points out that Denmark has a different legal framework because of its exceptional position within the EU. As a result, it can apply stricter rules such as the faster withdrawal of permits, minimal appeal options, and the fast labelling of countries of origin as 'safe'.
Nevertheless, the question arises to what extent the Danish model is more widely applicable within the European Union. The anticipated EU measures include plans to conclude deals with countries outside the EU to receive asylum seekers who have exhausted all legal remedies, even though it is unclear whether these countries are willing and able to comply with international human rights standards. Klaassen warns: ‘By presenting these plans in a grand and convincing manner, false expectations are being created which can lead to disappointment.’ He adds that it is not self-evident that these return hubs are practically feasible. International treaties and the willingness of third countries are serious obstacles. Not only that, the Danish model does also not appear to reduce pressure from asylum seekers within Europe. It simply shifts the burden to other Member States. According to Klaassen, this model instead underlines the need for a formal European asylum policy.
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Read the full BNR article (in Dutch)