Britain Can Learn from Denmark’s Approach to Immigration and Integration
As the UK continues to grapple with the complexities of immigration and integration, a recent report from Reaction Life suggests that Denmark offers valuable lessons for Britain. The report, written by Jonah Munn, a Senior Parliamentary Researcher for David Taylor MP, argues that Denmark’s clear and focused approach to immigration and integration has enabled the country to balance its commitment to humanitarian protection with the need to maintain social cohesion.
According to Reaction Life, Denmark’s approach to integration is built on the principle that it is a civic duty. Language training is mandatory for new arrivals, who also take part in orientation programmes that focus on Danish law, social norms, and expectations. Local authorities actively track and support integration, with consequences for those who do not engage. In contrast, Britain lacks a consistent, compulsory integration framework. Language requirements are often relaxed, and engagement with British values is limited to a multiple-choice test.
The report, as cited in Reaction Life, also highlights Denmark’s approach to asylum. Since 2019, Denmark has treated refugee protection as temporary, not automatic settlement. Refugees are expected to return to their home countries when they become safe. This approach allows Denmark to control its borders while continuing to help those in need. Britain’s asylum system, on the other hand, is overwhelmed and chaotic. The lack of safe and legal routes has pushed many to risk their lives by making irregular crossings, with a catastrophic impact on those who tragically lose their lives.
As Reaction Life notes, Denmark’s approach to immigration and integration is underpinned by a clear sense of national identity. The country expects immigrants and their children to respect and adopt Danish civic norms. This is not about erasing difference but about ensuring cohesion. Shared language, laws, and loyalty to democracy are non-negotiable. Britain, on the other hand, hesitates to discuss national identity, fearing exclusivity or intolerance.
The report, as reported by Reaction Life, also highlights Denmark’s efforts to tackle difficult issues head-on. Its controversial "anti-ghetto" policies aim to break up segregated communities, improve education access, and reinforce social norms. While these policies may not be suitable for Britain, the principle is clear: integration does not happen by accident. It takes planning, courage, and political will.
In conclusion, the report from Reaction Life suggests that Britain can learn valuable lessons from Denmark’s approach to immigration and integration. By adopting a clear and focused approach, Britain can balance its commitment to humanitarian protection with the need to maintain social cohesion. As Munn argues, "Britain should not copy Denmark blindly. Our histories and institutions differ. But we must learn the value of clarity. We should never apologise for being a nation with a proud history and distinct identity."
The article quotes Jonah Munn, a Senior Parliamentary Researcher for David Taylor MP, and references a report from Reaction Life.
Source: Reaction Life
