Despite the availability of passport revocation as a tool to prevent re-education trips, it has been used sparingly in Denmark, revealing a potential disconnect between policy and practice. From March 1, 2022, to May 21, 2025, passports have been revoked or refused in fewer than five instances, according to the Danish Immigration Service. Data from 2021 showed no passport revocations or refusals based on suspicion of re-education trips. Updated figures from the National Police are unavailable.

Experts believe this underutilization points to a significant lack of awareness and understanding surrounding the issue of re-education trips. Islamic researcher Jesper Petersen asserts that the revocation of a passport requires a strong professional assessment and a depth of knowledge about the subject, which he argues is currently insufficient.

The limited number of cases progressing through the system further highlights this issue. Since 2019, only 21 individuals have been charged in connection with re-education trips that endangered a child’s health or development. This figure is juxtaposed against 282 inquiries regarding re-education trips made to authorities since April 1, 2018, indicating a considerable “dark figure” of unreported or undetected cases. Neighboring countries like Norway and Sweden report significantly higher numbers of cases, suggesting Denmark may be underestimating the problem’s scope.

Sihaam Mohamoud, who experienced re-education trips herself, affirms the existence of a substantial unreported number of cases, particularly within Somali communities. She also notes a “fear of contact” from the system’s side, where teachers may be hesitant to report concerns due to a lack of knowledge or fear of consequences.

One case highlights the potential consequences of inaction. Amal Araweelo Almis is suing Aarhus Municipality and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for failing to intervene despite her expressed concerns about being sent on a re-education trip. She endured a 16-month stay in Somali re-education camps, where she was subjected to religious instruction and physical punishment.

While Denmark has implemented measures like the National Center against Honor-Related Conflicts, Jesper Petersen argues that there remains insufficient knowledge and inadequate tools to effectively combat re-education trips. He contends that professionals lack research-based knowledge to effectively address the issue, leaving citizens without adequate state support.

Stine Strohbach, head of office at the National Center against Honor-Related Conflicts, acknowledges the complexity of these cases and the need to balance child protection with parental rights. She highlights initiatives such as a national coordination unit against re-education trips and mandatory reporting for professionals who suspect such trips are being planned. She emphasizes the importance of early detection, as intervention becomes significantly more difficult once a child has been sent abroad.

Center manager Kenneth Schmidt Hansen underscores the need for close collaboration with vulnerable groups within Denmark, as well as international cooperation through diplomatic channels and police cooperation, which can be limited in certain countries.

Minister for Immigration and Integration Kaare Dybvad Bek affirms the commitment to stopping re-education trips and emphasizes the need for authorities to intervene quickly when suspicion arises.