Germany implements border controls at Danish border, raising concerns over local impact

Germany’s newly implemented border controls at the Danish border are expected to have significant implications for the border region’s development, according to Stefan Seidler, a member of the German Bundestag representing the Danish minority. Seidler criticized the German government’s introduction of sporadic border checks, which will last for six months, emphasizing that it will adversely affect local residents.

Seidler stated, “We are a remote area that requires cultural and economic cooperation across the border to flourish. Border control serves as a barrier to our development.” This new measure may involve travelers being asked to present official identification or passports at various border crossings, with the extent of checks depending on the evolving situation.

On Monday morning, the anticipated delays at the border did not materialize, as traffic flowed smoothly. Approximately 12,500 Germans commute to Denmark daily, while about 500 Danes travel the opposite route. Officials had advised commuters to leave home earlier due to expected travel disruptions, but reports confirmed no significant issues at the Kruså crossing.

The border control is framed as a security measure against “Islamist terror and serious cross-border crime,” according to the German Interior Ministry. German Interior Minister Nancy Faeser emphasized the importance of reinforcing internal security and maintaining a tough stance on illegal immigration. However, Seidler contended that such issues are not prevalent at the Danish-German border and suggested that more modern methods exist for addressing migration challenges.

He described the border checks as outdated and a step backward, arguing that they are motivated by electoral strategy rather than genuine concerns for security. As a result, he views the measures as populist gestures aimed at influencing upcoming state and federal elections in Germany.