Keywords: denmark, expatriates, integration
May 07, 2007
I was amused to see today the first in a week long series of articles in one of Denmark's free newspapers 24timer investigating the behaviour of Danish expatriates in Sweden, Spain and a couple of other enclaves (widely re-reported for example here in Danish). The articles are seemingly based on the work of Karen O'Reilly, a sociologist at Aberdeen University who published a report (in English and Spanish) on the topic relating to British expatriates. Almost all the vices which Danes accuse their immigrants of are to be found in the mini-Denmarks in Spain and elsewhere such as an unwillingness to learn the language or to engage with local society, for example by voting in local government elections. Critics were quick to point out that these Danes have probably earned their right to be separate by being financially independent but I don't think that this totally excuses the degree of disconnect which obviously exists. On the other hand I think there is something to be learned from this mirroring exercise and I would hope that it convinces at least some people, that it is only natural to want to hold on to your native language, traditions and habits to a certain extent when you migrate.
Posted by Anne Fox
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