Denmark’s laws concerning immigration have led to widespread criticism from progressives worldwide, branding the Social Democrats as sponsers of “monstrous, racists, and reactionary” policies. These critics claim that these policies have morphed the Social Democrats into a conservative party. However, current Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen and her team don’t see these actions as a contravention of progressive values, but rather a crucial part of their platform.
In an interview conducted in her sleek, modern office overlooking historic Copenhagen buildings, Frederiksen stressed that her tough immigration stance was a major factor in her party’s election victory and their sustained leadership despite other left-wing parties’ struggles elsewhere.
According to Frederiksen, left-wing politics often rely on collective effort, fostering a sense of community among voters. This willingness to stand together, however, wanes when the electorate is faced with the financial burden of a comprehensive welfare state. “You cannot welcome anyone who wants to join your society…especially if you are a welfare state like us,” she commented. She contended that high levels of immigration may erode this unity and unfairly burden the working class with overwhelmed benefit programs, overcrowded schools, and intense competition for housing and jobs.
Frederiksen emphasized that her party did not adjust its stance for political gain but out of conviction. They believe that unchecked immigration can exacerbate economic inequality and that progressives’ priority should be to improve conditions for the most vulnerable members of their own society.
As center-left parties globally, including those in the United States, attempt to regain power, they may face similar challenges. Immigration is expected to remain a major political topic in the coming years, driven by factors such as poverty, political unrest, climate change, trafficking, and social media pulling people from poorer countries towards wealthier ones.
While wealthier countries – where population growth is stalling – may need to accept more immigrants to maintain economic health, the approach towards immigration in recent years has not been effective. Divisive and chaotic, immigration has often occurred without the direct consent of citizens, who would likely have opposed such policies in a public vote. Instead, they have voiced their dissatisfaction through political actions, such as supporting politicians like Trump, who advocates for mass deportation. Across Europe, right-wing parties have long been the only major critics of immigration and have seen significant electoral success.
Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/02/24/magazine/denmark-immigration-policy-progressives.html
