"Really? I've never heard of that" New York Times... nytimes.com
Denmark is requiring newly arrived asylum seekers to hand over valuables, including jewelry and gold, to help pay for their stay in the country. The move underscored an anti-immigration backlash that has prompted several European countries to seek ways to discourage migrants from entering.
Under the law, which passed by a sizable majority after several hours of debate, refugees who enter Denmark with assets of more than 10,000 kroner, about $1,450, would have to contribute toward the costs of their lodging.
However, goods with sentimental value like wedding rings and family portraits are exempt from seizure.
The bill also stipulates that asylum seekers must wait three years before they can apply to bring their families to Denmark
The Danish are merely asking refugees to abide by the same requirements that Danish citizens face, namely that they use their own resources before being eligible for welfare benefits. They also pointed to precedents in Europe. Asylum seekers in Switzerland, for example, must declare their assets upon arrival and hand over those exceeding 1,000 Swiss francs, about $981, Reuters has reported, citing the Swiss broadcaster SRF.
German law requires asylum applicants to contribute to their living costs to the extent possible. This has been the case since 1993 and, while all of the country’s 16 states allow asylum seekers to keep 200 euros ($217), each enforces the law differently. |
