In The News Are Denmark’s hardline immigration rules coming to Ireland?
Nov 25, 2025
Naomi O'Leary, an Irish Times correspondent specializing in European politics and migration, dives into Denmark's strict immigration policies and their potential ripple effects on Ireland. She highlights key features like the controversial 'jewellery law' and restrictive family reunification policies. O'Leary also discusses Denmark's emphasis on self-deportation and its appeal as a model for other EU nations. With the UK looking to Denmark for inspiration, O'Leary illuminates the implications for Ireland amidst an evolving immigration landscape.
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Temporary Permits And Tight Family Rules
- Denmark treats most refugee residence permits as temporary and tightens family reunification rules.
- These measures form a legislative framework intended to deter arrivals and limit long-term settlement.
The Jewellery Law Example
- Denmark introduced a 2015 'jewellery law' allowing authorities to take refugees' valuables to cover accommodation.
- The law was largely symbolic and rarely enforced, used as a deterrent signal abroad.
Encouraging Self-Deportation
- Denmark uses deportation centres and limits appeals to encourage self-deportation of rejected asylum seekers.
- The policy aims to reduce long-term stays by making conditions basic and decisions final.