‘That resentment is real’: Mahmood’s Denmark visit aims to hammer home tough line on immigration

The Guardian World

by Rajeev Syal in Copenhagen

March 1, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Shabana Mahmood, the UK Home Secretary, visited Denmark’s Sjælsmark returns center to emphasize a tough stance on immigration. During her tour, she highlighted the need for responsible and “legitimate” politics that acknowledges grievances while enforcing strict policies. The visit aimed to showcase Denmark’s approach to managing asylum seekers, which includes temporary refugee status and swift deportations. Sjælsmark, located near Copenhagen, is a former military barracks now housing individuals whose asylum or right-to-remain applications have been rejected. Mahmood was briefed on the harsh living conditions faced by those detained there before being deported or transferred to other countries. Denmark’s left-leaning Social Democrat government implemented this system to deter potential claimants by creating an environment of uncertainty and limited rights. The UK is now considering adopting similar measures, with plans to scrap indefinite leave to remain for refugees. Mahmood’s visit signals a shift toward temporary refugee status in the UK, aligning more closely with Denmark’s approach. This move reflects a broader trend of European countries prioritizing border control over asylum seekers’ long-term rights. By temporarily granting permission to stay and later deporting individuals from “safe” countries, Denmark aims to reduce the burden on its asylum system. Mahmood praised this approach, emphasizing that it balances security concerns with acknowledging refugees’ legitimate grievances. However, critics argue that such policies risk alienating vulnerable populations and undermining international obligations to protect displaced individuals. This hardline immigration strategy has sparked debate across Europe, as countries grapple with balancing compassion and control in their refugee policies. Mahmood’s visit underscores the UK’s commitment to following suit, signaling a potential shift in how the nation handles asylum applications and

Verticals

worldpolitics

Originally published on The Guardian World on 3/1/2026