UK Adopts Controversial Asylum Policies Inspired by Denmark

A recent delegation from the British Home Office undertook a study trip to Copenhagen with the aim of examining Denmark's stringent asylum policies and its so-called 'ghetto laws,' which allow for the forced relocation of individuals based on ethnicity. The findings have had a substantial impact, culminating in the UK government's announcement of a new asylum policy that mirrors these strict measures. This initiative represents the most significant reform in immigration policy since World War II under the Labour government. The newly proposed policies aim to drastically reduce the number of individuals granted asylum in the UK, although specific figures are yet to be disclosed. The refugee status will now be temporary and under continuous review, while the waiting period for permanent residence has been extended to an unprecedented 20 years. As the number of asylum seekers in the UK continues to rise, largely due to many individuals risking dangerous crossings via the English Channel, public protests have erupted across the nation. In light of this, the government is now taking steps to diminish the appeal of seeking asylum in the UK, not only by limiting acceptance but also by reserving the right to deport individuals once their home country is deemed safe. Furthermore, authorities will have the power to confiscate personal belongings from refugees to partially fund the costs associated with handling asylum applications and housing. Lars Løkke Rasmussen, Denmark's Foreign Minister and the architects of the nation's asylum policy, has publicly endorsed the UK's shift, advocating for the replication of Denmark's model across Europe. He argues that a strict asylum policy is essential for addressing issues like gang crime and the rise of far-right sentiments. UK Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood presented the new asylum framework, justifying it through the lens of enhancing the British people's intrinsic values of openness, tolerance, and generosity. Nevertheless, this rhetoric is deftly juxtaposed with stark realities, as she noted how illegal immigration has led to divisions within communities. Currently, from March 2024 to March 2025, a total of 109,343 asylum applications were recorded in the UK—a 17% increase from the previous year. Over 37,000 migrants have attempted the perilous journey across the English Channel this year alone, with only two successfully deported under an agreement with France. The influx of asylum seekers, combined with the conversion of hotels into temporary accommodation for refugees, has fueled significant domestic discontent. Protests have become commonplace, with citizens expressing frustration over the perceived influx of refugees, as demonstrated during a protest on November 16 in West Drayton. In a bid to counter the rising popularity of the right-populist party Reform UK, the Labour government is adopting elements of their strict asylum policies while softening the narrative. Despite this effort to present a kinder perspective, Mahmood's comments about illegal immigration and its impact resonate with fears among the populace. Former Conservative Prime Minister David Cameron once remarked that the UK has a long-standing history of being a welcoming nation. However, in light of the recent policy changes, many are left to question whether that sentiment still holds true in contemporary society. Related Sources: • Source 1 • Source 2