[Human Trafficking, Country-by-Country ]

DENMARK (Tier 1) – Extracted in part from the U.S. State Dept 2023 TIP Report

The Government of Denmark fully meets the minimum standards for the elimination of trafficking. The government made key achievements during the reporting period, considering the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, if any, on its anti-trafficking capacity; therefore Denmark was upgraded to Tier 1. These achievements included prosecuting more traffickers and convicting traffickers for the first time in three years; establishing a special crimes unit with designated police and prosecutors investigating organized crime and other serious crimes, including trafficking. Additionally, the government identified more trafficking victims, granted compensation and restitution to victims, and, for the second consecutive year, granted a temporary residence permit to a trafficking victim. Furthermore, the government developed guidance on preventing labor trafficking in corporate value chains. Although the government meets the minimum standards, authorities investigated fewer trafficking cases. The government continued to focus on the deportation of some foreign victims rather than screening for trafficking indicators. The government did not adequately encourage victims’ assistance with investigations, and its practice to swiftly repatriate foreign victims inhibited successful prosecutions and left victims vulnerable to re-trafficking and reluctant to come forward and work with police. Moreover, the government lacked clear procedures for identifying child victims, especially among unaccompanied children.

Prioritized Recommendations

Proactively screen all vulnerable individuals, such as migrant workers, asylum-seekers, and unaccompanied children, for trafficking indicators and stay deportation of potential victims prior to identification and assistance.

Increase incentives for all victims to cooperate in the prosecution of traffickers, including by granting longer-term residency and work permits.

Develop clear procedures for identifying and assisting child trafficking victims and train relevant workers to recognize indicators.

Develop uniform procedures for investigating trafficking crimes for all police districts to follow and train police on implementation, including gathering evidence.

Implement Section 722(2) of the Administration of Justice Act consistently and corresponding prosecutorial guidelines to ensure victims are not inappropriately penalized solely for unlawful acts committed as a direct result of being trafficked.

Investigate and prosecute trafficking crimes and convict traffickers with an increased focus on pursuing labor trafficking cases.

Seek adequate penalties for convicted traffickers, which involve significant prison terms.

Train asylum officers to recognize indicators and identify victims during asylum interviews.

Grant and renew residence permits to asylum-seekers.

Amend the law to prohibit worker-paid recruitment fees.

Train law enforcement officials, prosecutors, and judges on victim-centered, trauma-informed approaches.

Expand efforts to increase cooperation among civil society and government anti-trafficking actors, particularly police, including enhancing civil society’s participation in government-led working groups.