CIAO DATE: 06/2009
October 2008
Norwegian Institute of International Affairs
As one of the last decisions before it broke for this year’s summer recess, The Danish Parliament, Folketinget, passed two bills to facilitate the participation of Danish municipalities in the International Cities of Refuge Network. On the face of it, it might be good news that yet another country opens its borders to writers targeted with threats and persecution. As a condition for refuge in Denmark, however, a writer will need to sign a rather peculiar document – a “Declaration on recognition of the fundamental values of the Danish society” (appendix 1). The writer thereby declares to, i.a., “understand and accept the fundamental values of Danish society”; “protect the Danish democratic principles” including nondiscrimination and the condemnation of terrorism; and finally declare to be aware that s/he is meant to leave again within two years.
Resource link: Conditions for Hospitality or Defence of Identity? Writers in Need of Refuge [PDF] - 410K