Denmark has reached a milestone with approximately one million immigrants and descendants, prompting reflection on the Social Democrats’ evolving stance on immigration. Mattias Tesfaye, the Minister of Education and former Minister for Immigration and Integration, offers insights into this complex issue, drawing from his book “Welcome Mustafa” which chronicles the party’s search for a coherent immigration policy.

Tesfaye emphasizes the significant impact of immigration on Copenhagen’s western suburbs, where he represents Ishøj, Vallensbæk, and Brøndby. He notes that in many areas, people with foreign roots now constitute the majority. While acknowledging that most are law-abiding, employed, and integrated citizens who desire to be Danish, he also recognizes their strong ties to their religious and cultural identities, particularly related to Turkey, Pakistan, and Morocco. He finds it “mega exciting” to consider how this well-functioning middle-class immigrant population can fully integrate into the welfare state and contribute to social cohesion.

Tesfaye points to two conflicting trends within the Social Democrats that have fueled the debate on immigration policy. The first, born from the lessons of the Holocaust, emphasizes the importance of human rights and providing refuge to those seeking protection. The second trend focuses on the preservation of the social democratic welfare state. This divide became apparent with the influx of guest workers and refugees, particularly in the western suburbs.

He recounts how a report on integration challenges by Vibeke Storm Rasmussen was initially shelved due to internal disagreements within the party. This report, which Tesfaye later acquired, highlighted the tension between open borders and maintaining the welfare state. Some members who advocated for a stricter policy faced ostracism within the party.

However, after the 2015 election, the newly elected chairman of the Social Democrats, Mette Frederiksen, shifted the party’s stance, aligning more closely with the concerns raised by mayors in the western suburbs. This marked a significant turning point in the party’s history.

Tesfaye acknowledges the friction caused by the Social Democrats’ move to the right on immigration policy. He believes that a strict approach is necessary to safeguard the welfare state but respects those within the party who hold different views.

Despite the shift, Tesfaye denies that it was purely a tactical move to regain voters who had drifted to the Danish People’s Party. He maintains that the stricter policy was driven by a genuine effort to address the challenges posed by a sharp increase in asylum seekers. His book “Welcome Mustafa” was an attempt to find historical context and common ground within the party’s immigration policy.

Tesfaye concludes that the Social Democratic vision requires controlled immigration to ensure its sustainability, stating that uncontrolled immigration could ultimately undermine the party’s goals.