Immigration policy is more than deporting criminals; integration also concerns values

Denmark's new government has reduced immigration policy to a matter of criminal justice, largely abandoning the integration of immigrants based on shared values. Christian Marcussen, writing for Berlingske, argues this approach risks undoing years of progress and insights gained in immigration and integration efforts.

Marcussen contends that the focus on deporting criminal foreigners overlooks the broader, more complex task of integrating newcomers into Danish society. He believes that by prioritizing punitive measures, the government is neglecting the crucial element of value-based integration, which is essential for social cohesion and long-term success.

The shift in policy, according to Marcussen, represents a significant step backward. He suggests that the pragmatic and often difficult work of fostering mutual understanding and shared values between immigrants and the host society is being sidelined. This, he warns, could lead to a failure to capitalize on previous efforts and a potential loss of valuable lessons learned.