One of the tragedies of the Iraq war was the need for over two million people to flee the nation in search of safety. Many have gone to European nations such as Denmark. Their arrival has undoubtedly posed issues for Europeans such as what constitutes the right of asylum for people who might face death or brutality if returned to their nation of birth. Yesterday in Copenhagen, police brutally removed 19 Iraqi asylum seekers from their shelter at the Bronson’s church where they have been given a place to live. Former Prime Minister Poul Nyrup Rasmussen, blasted the police action. “It went beyond the bounds of common humanity and decency.” Videos taken of the eviction depict an officer beating a young woman numerous times with his truncheon.
Danish officials argue they have reached an agreement with Iraq to allow refugees to return and they are assured no one will be hurt in the process. Of course, each day there are bomb attacks and dozens of people are killed and wounded. The assurance would carry more weight if it was given by a nation at peace.
