"We strongly condemn the measures that the Danish government has taken to open up for the possibility of confiscating valuables from refugees. This is a very inhumane, and horrent measure which is completely out of proportions… This happened before in Germany, a very dark chapter in European history," Imran Shah, who also sits on the board of the Islamic Society, said.
The new law was creating an international echo around the reputation of Copenhagen, he said, adding that other countries as well as NGOs should pressure Denmark over the legislation.
"Continuous pressure will definitely make a difference and this is something that politicians need to know," Shah said.
Under the law adopted on Tuesday, Danish officials are authorized to confiscate non-essential items valued over $1,450 that bear no sentimental value to their owners. The seized assets would be put toward partially financing the cost to the state of supporting the refugee while his/her asylum application is being processed. The move to reform Denmark's Aliens Act is seen as a way to dissuade potential refugees from seeking asylum in the country.
The Council of Europe's commissioner for Human Rights said prior to the adoption of the bill that it was likely to violate international legal standards, while the UN high commissioner for Refugees labeled the plan a "deeply concerning" response to the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Europe.
