In Denmark, the ‘combined attachment’ test is now the most common reason for couples to be denied settlement. In fact, the Council of Europe’s European Commission Against Racism and Intolerance has recently criticised the Danish government for racism and discrimination, since its immigration policy disadvantages non-ethnic Danes.
The Migration Integration Policy Index (MIPEX) has found that in Denmark:
- Family reunion policies for integration are the second least favourable in Europe, especially concerning eligibility and conditions for immigration and settlement (first is Ireland).
- The new immigration test may test ability to pay, but not the willingness to integrate.
- State policies to help the victims of discrimination are still weak.
In a 2012 study, Mikkel Rytter analysed the Danish approach to family reunification and determined that the state’s attempt to limit transnational marriages would have long lasting and detrimental effects on the relationship between minorities and majorities in Denmark. He concluded that policies like Denmark has enacted will only widen the gaps between the Danish majority and immigrant minority. In light of the evidence, claims that policies like this facilitate ‘integration’ ring rather hollow...
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