Prime Ministers Keir Starmer of the UK and Mette Frederiksen of Denmark have jointly called for a balanced approach to irregular migration, arguing that border control is essential to protect democratic values. In a co-authored article, they warn that failing to address public concerns over migration risks empowering populist movements across Europe.
The leaders highlight Denmark's success in reducing asylum grants to a 40-year low (excluding 2020) through tough but fair reforms. The UK has similarly increased removals of those without legal status and linked settlement to integration and contribution. Starmer and Frederiksen stress that asylum systems must evolve to reflect modern realities, where many migrants seek better futures rather than fleeing immediate danger.
They reject exploiting migration for political gain, instead advocating for practical solutions that combine compassion with law and order. The pair note that deportations of foreign national offenders in the UK have risen 12% since November, and new laws will expedite removal of foreign criminals. They also call for dismantling human smuggling networks and modernising the European Convention on Human Rights to address 21st-century challenges.
Starmer and Frederiksen conclude that progressive governments must deliver the change citizens demand: controlled borders, fair asylum systems, and stronger democracies. They urge European partners to collaborate on these shared challenges to counter divisive forces.
