Answer given by Ms Johansson on behalf of the European Commission

11.6.2021

Due to the opt-out from EU Justice and Home Affairs policies, Denmark does not take part in EU migration and asylum policy, with the exception of the Dublin and Eurodac Regulations.

Further, the Commission is not responsible to intervene in the outcome of status review cases, which is the responsibility of competent national authorities or national courts.

However, under international law, Denmark is bound by the non-refoulement principle of the Geneva Refugee Convention and by Article 3 of the European Convention on Human Rights on the prohibition of torture, inhuman or degrading treatment. Denmark acknowledges these international obligations.

It is a priority for the Commission that all policies adopted by Member States are in line with fundamental rights and Member States are encouraged to take into account the guidance from international organisations and agencies such as the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees. The Danish authorities have assured the Commission that they will not carry out any forced returns to Syria.