A heated debate has erupted between the Social Democratic mayor of Brøndby, Maja Højgaard, and Morten Høyer of the Confederation of Danish Industry (DI) regarding the impact of foreign labor on Danish society. Højgaard criticizes DI for allegedly overlooking the consequences of international labor on local communities, particularly concerning social cohesion and integration. Høyer retorts, questioning how Denmark can sustain its welfare state without foreign labor.

Højgaard points to the strain on local schools, citing a significant increase in reception classes for non-Danish speaking children as evidence of integration challenges. She suggests exploring alternative labor sources, such as the unemployed in Skåne, Sweden, and promoting a more inclusive labor market for disabled Danes.

Høyer dismisses Højgaard’s concerns as “privilege-blind,” arguing that Brøndby’s relative lack of recruitment problems does not reflect the broader needs of Danish businesses. He emphasizes the substantial contribution of international labor to Denmark’s GDP, citing a Danish Chamber of Commerce analysis that puts the figure at 361 billion kroner in 2024.

The debate has drawn in other political figures, with Minister for Children and Education Mattias Tesfaye echoing Højgaard’s concerns about the business community’s focus on production needs over local challenges. Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen has also weighed in, cautioning against harsh rhetoric and emphasizing the importance of international labor for Danish society.

Højgaard denies that her criticism is part of a coordinated effort by the Social Democratic party, although she expresses hope that Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen shares her concerns about the impact of foreign labor on communities like Brøndby.