An N-VA delegation is visiting the Danish Minister for Migration and Integration

An N-VA delegation, including MP Theo Francken, Flemish MP Maaike De Vreese and MEP Assita Kanko, is in Copenhagen for a series of visits regarding asylum and migration policy, security and justice. In the coming days, they will meet the newly appointed Minister of Asylum and Migration, Kaare Dybvad Bek. Denmark has opted for a strong migration and asylum policy. The N-VA is advocating a similar approach in our country.

“The Danish migration model actually works, in contrast to the passive policy that we have in Belgium. That is why we are here today to learn how they are translating their successful formula into practice,” explains MP and former State Secretary for Asylum and Migration Theo Francken. Denmark is now being led by a left-wing, socialist majority that immediately set its course for a strict migration and integration policy upon taking office. Former Minister Tesfaye stated earlier that the current European asylum system is indefensible and plays into the hands of people smugglers.

The Australian model

“That’s right. The Danes have understood that we must first and foremost ensure that the illegal migration circuit dries up as quickly as possible,” adds MEP Assita Kanko. “That is why the N-VA is advocating the implementation of a similar system, the Australian model.”

Reception in the region of origin

In that migration model, the rickety boats arriving in the EU would automatically be brought to safety outside the borders. Anyone trying to reach the country illegally would be banned from residence for years. In addition, that model opts for better reception in the region of origin.

Civic integration Flanders has a policy for civic integration. This is a guided and targeted form of social integration for people of foreign origin. The intention is that the newcomers are provided with a valuable place in society by including them instead of excluding them. Civic integration, which includes language lessons and civic integration courses, was brought about by the participation of the N-VA in the Flemish Government since 2004 and the appointment of a Minister for Civic Integration. Civic integration pays off

The Danes have already caused much controversy in the world news with their policies. “We don’t agree with all the choices the Danes make, but at least they realise that learning the language, respecting the laws and having citizenship is essential if you want to participate in a society. This is in stark contrast to Brussels, where there is still no compulsory civic integration. For reference, it has been in place in Flanders for 18 years,” Flemish MP Maaike De Vreese says.