**Danmark Democrats Propose Upgraded Border Control with Civilian Personnel**

The Denmark Democrats (Danmarksdemokraterne) are advocating for enhanced border control measures at Denmark’s borders with Sweden and Germany by integrating civilian personnel employed by the HK union (HK – Handel og Kontor). Party Vice Chairman Peter Skaarup emphasizes that this solution is inspired by practices at Copenhagen Airport, where HK staff are already handling control tasks.

The main aim of this proposal is to free up police resources at the borders, allowing law enforcement officials to focus on other responsibilities. Skaarup highlights that employing 200 HK workers would alleviate the burden on the police, who currently manage demanding border control tasks. The civilian controllers would undergo a brief training program to equip them with the skills necessary to check passports and be vigilant for suspicious activities.

This approach is not new in Danish politics; a similar proposal was put forth by the Danish People’s Party (Dansk Folkeparti) back in 2016 regarding the border with Germany.

The ongoing discussion about border control has gained urgency following a series of criminal incidents involving Swedish nationals in the capital region this summer. However, the National Police Chief Thorkild Fogde has expressed skepticism towards increased border control, advocating instead for the use of advanced technologies like facial recognition to identify criminals.

In addition to the employment of HK staff for control tasks, the Denmark Democrats propose the establishment of a dedicated border police force responsible for both passport and identity checks, incorporating technology such as facial recognition. This initiative aims to ensure that criminals crossing the border are identified immediately, with Skaarup illustrating the desire for gang leaders to be recognized at the border right away.

There are critics who perceive the proposed border control with HK personnel as merely symbolic. In response, Skaarup asserts that this is indeed part of the plan. The system is practically oriented and aims to address the need to reallocate well-trained police officers to other tasks, as there is a considerable amount of work for the police force.

In addition to the border with Germany, the HK-employed controllers would also be stationed at the border with Sweden to enhance security on both fronts.