Denmark: Government extends stricter controls at border checks through at least Aug. 17 /update 1

Event

The Danish government has extended its existing heightened border security checks through at least Aug. 17. The directive, which was originally slated to expire Aug. 10, is in response to perceived security risks in the wake of several demonstrations that have taken place across the country during which activists burned copies of the Quran. The new policy grants border police the power to conduct additional random checks, among other actions. Authorities could extend the enhanced security procedures beyond the currently slated expiration date depending on operational needs.

Security-related delays are possible for international arrivals at airports, maritime ports, and land border crossings nationwide.

Context

The move by the government in Copenhagen comes in the immediate wake of similar border security measures implemented in neighboring Sweden. Over the past several months, activists in both Scandinavian countries have staged multiple demonstrations during which copies of the Quran were burned, drawing international backlash, primarily from Muslim-majority nations. Swedish diplomatic missions in several countries, including Turkey, Iran, and Malaysia, have been targeted in street protests over the issue; in Iraq, protesters stormed the country's embassy in Baghdad on July 20, setting part of the building on fire. Two days later, Iraqi protesters attempted to breach Baghdad's Green Zone in an effort to access the Danish Embassy but were unsuccessful.

Advice

Allow additional time to clear Danish border security. Carry proper identification documents at all times while in Denmark; strictly heed the instructions of local security officials.