Denmark’s temporary controls at the border with Germany have been extended again for six months, the Justice Ministry in Copenhagen said on Friday.
The ministry cited the threat of terrorism, the spreading conflict in the Middle East and the continuing anger over the Koran burnings in Denmark last year as justification.
“We must protect the safety and security of Danes,” Justice Minister Peter Hummelgaard said in a statement.
“The terrorist threat against Denmark is serious, and the government believes that on this basis it is necessary to maintain temporary border controls with Germany.”
Hummelgaard noted that neighboring countries Germany and Sweden have also introduced controls on their side.
“This proves to me that we are in a serious situation in Europe where we will also have to think about who we open our country’s borders to.”
Denmark announced in April 2023 that it would implement stricter controls at the border with Germany.
Several EU countries have introduced land border controls, raising concerns that Europe’s hassle-free travel area known as the Schengen area is being undermined.
