The Council of Europe Monday expressed concern about Denmark’s “extensive shift” over the past decade towards a policy of providing only temporary protection to those who seek asylum, with the aim of returning individuals to their country of origin as soon as possible.

“This policy has led to a climate of instability and uncertainty for people who may have already fled persecution or conflict, and may also be hampering integration efforts,” said Dunja Mijatovic, Council of Europe Commissioner for Human Rights today, in a statement following her visit to Denmark.

During her visit to Avnstrup returns center for families who have been refused asylum or had their residence permits revoked in Denmark, the Commissioner said she “learned with regret that a large number of children and young people, some of whom have been living there with their families for many years in a state of limbo, are additionally suffering from poor mental health and well-being as a result of their situation.” She also raised with the Danish authorities the fact that immigration detention is still frequently used and called for the improvement of reportedly harsh conditions in centers at Krshovedgard and Ellebk.

The Council of Europe, based in the French city of Strasbourg, is Europe’s leading human rights body with 46 member states, including 27 EU member states.

Source: Kuwait News Agency (KUNA)