Denmark Considers Screening Citizenship Candidates for Anti-Democratic Attitudes

The Danish government is exploring the introduction of a new screening process aimed at identifying anti-democratic attitudes among candidates applying for Danish citizenship. According to a press release from the Immigration and Integration Ministry, an expert committee will be established to assess the feasibility of such a screening process, which may include reviewing candidates’ social media activity.

The government asserts that individuals seeking Danish citizenship should share the country's democratic values. A recent incident involving a Ukrainian man who lost his Austrian citizenship for refusing to sing the Austrian national anthem during a citizenship ceremony was cited as an example of anti-democratic behavior. Austrian officials highlighted that failing to identify with the nation indicates an unwillingness to accept its fundamental principles.

Danish Immigration and Integration Minister Kaare Dybvad Bek, who has been examining the possibility of implementing these measures, expressed concerns about certain attitudes among a minority of Muslims in Denmark.

“Unfortunately, we are seeing a spread of totalitarian attitudes among a minority of Muslims living here. Attitudes that we find completely unacceptable at home and that we must speak out against. Therefore, the government wants to learn more about whether it is possible to introduce screening of applicants for citizenship,” Bek said.

The Minister emphasized the importance of thoroughly evaluating the legal, technical, practical, and economic aspects of organizing such screenings. He also stressed that any screening mechanism must ensure that the authority to grant citizenship remains solely with Denmark’s parliament, without interference from government offices or courts.

Furthermore, the committee tasked with examining this initiative must ensure that all recommendations comply with Denmark’s Constitution and international agreements.

The proposal to strengthen citizenship rules has been championed by Alex Vanoplasgh, leader of the Liberal Alliance, who emphasized the need for naturalized citizens to align with Denmark’s fundamental democratic values.

“I think it is extremely natural that – when you are granted citizenship – it is a requirement that you believe in the Constitution. And that you believe that all your fellow citizens have the right to the same freedoms that you have,” Vanoplasgh stated.

This initiative implies that candidates with controversial or discriminatory beliefs, such as anti-Semitism or homophobia, could face challenges in acquiring Danish citizenship. Denmark’s proposal aligns with a trend seen in other European countries, including Sweden, the Netherlands, and Estonia, which have introduced or are considering stricter measures for citizenship candidates. Similarly, six federal states in Germany are advocating for comparable regulations.

By fLEXI tEAM