Denmark Calls EU to Review Spain’s Migrant Legalisation Plan

At the EU leaders’ summit in October 2026, Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen asked the European Commission to examine Spain’s decree that regularises the status of roughly 500,000 undocumented migrants—a figure Danish officials refer to as 600,000.

Euronews

The plan contrasts with the broader EU trend toward tighter migration controls, a stance championed by Denmark, Italy, Poland and other members seeking to curb what they view as a “pull effect.” The summit’s “migration breakfast” brought together 18 member states to discuss further restrictions, including the creation of third-country deportation hubs.

El Pais

Frederiksen’s demand was echoed by Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, who joined Denmark in urging tougher measures. EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen highlighted a 55 % drop in illegal border crossings over the past two years, calling the result “substantial.” Spain’s Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez defended the decree as compatible with economic growth and social cohesion, while diplomatic sources noted that Denmark, Italy and Poland intend to amend the summit’s final conclusions to stress the need to reduce any “pull effect” from national policies.

Euronews

Czech Prime Minister Andrej Babiš warned that Spain’s policy enables “population replacement” to retain political power. Austrian Chancellor Christian Stöcker labelled the move a “bad sign” for Europe. These leaders, along with Denmark, argue that Spain’s legalisation could attract additional irregular migrants to the bloc.

El Pais

• The EU has recorded a 55 % decline in illegal border crossings, the lowest level since 2021.

El Pais

• In late July, the Spanish exclave of Ceuta saw an influx of about 80,000 people over two days, leaving thousands in makeshift camps.

El Pais

Spain has called a snap election for November 29 (2026, scheduled), followed by elections in France, Finland and other EU states in 2027, a timeline that may intensify domestic debates over migration policy.

El Pais

• “I have asked the European Commission to examine what happens when a country does almost the exact opposite of what the rest of us are doing,” — Mette Frederiksen, danish prime minister

Euronews

• “I believe this runs counter to the migration policy supported by a large majority in Europe today,” — Mette Frederiksen, danish prime minister

Euronews