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Denmark: Ex-minister faces historic impeachment trial

A historic impeachment trial is underway in Denmark against a former immigration minister who spearheaded dozens of tough immigration measures.

A historic impeachment trial is underway in Denmark against a former immigration minister who spearheaded dozens of tough immigration measures.

Inger Stoejberg is accused of unlawfully ordering the separation of young asylum-seeking couples in 2016.

Anne-Sophie Allarp is a journalist based in Denmark. She told Newsday.

“Back in 2016 - when she was a minister - a lot of refugees had come mainly from Syria and among them were just under 30 couples, where one (of the partners) was younger than 18. Only two couples had the woman being younger than 15 and they were separated lawfully.”

“But the others had to be separated, the minister mandated, because in Denmark we do not have child brides. And she forcefully separated them, even though it is against their right to family life.”

“She has acted very defiantly. She is one of the most popular politicians. She has seen herself as somebody to guarantee Danish culture at a time when other cultures are seeking refuge in Denmark.”

Photo: Former immigration minister Inger Stoejberg arrives at her impeachment hearing (EPA)

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