The government’s new law on duty to work is facing criticism for potentially undermining the social rights of Danish children whose parents have worked abroad. Political commentator Jarl Cordua argues that this legislation unfairly penalizes families who contribute to the welfare state by gaining knowledge and experience internationally.

The law introduces stricter requirements for duty to work and lower benefits in the cash assistance system for Danes returning home after working abroad and their children. This creates a distinction in social rights based on whether individuals were sent abroad by the state or by private companies. Employees of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and their children are exempt from the rule, while those working for the business community are not.

Cordua finds it unreasonable to discourage Danes from seeking international opportunities, emphasizing the importance of encouraging them to improve their skills abroad. He questions how the party Venstre, once known for its international orientation, can support such legislation.

He suggests that the Moderates party has lost the battle against the Social Democrats and Employment Minister Ane Halsboe-Jørgensen, who are determined to implement these rules. In closing, Cordua recommends that the government omit the third verse of “In Denmark I Was Born” when singing it at future meetings, to avoid accusations of hypocrisy.