Expert backs new background checks to curb drug smuggling in Danish ports

A proposal to introduce mandatory background checks for workers in Denmark’s largest ports has been praised by a professor of global crime, who says similar measures have proven effective elsewhere in Europe.

Henrik Vigh, a professor at the University of Copenhagen, told Danish broadcaster DR that screening employees in container traffic for serious criminal convictions has reduced cocaine smuggling in major European ports like Rotterdam and Antwerp.

“Rotterdam and Antwerp have essentially been taken over by criminal groups that have smuggled enormous amounts of cocaine through these container ports,” Vigh said. “Right now, the amount of cocaine being smuggled through Rotterdam and Antwerp is declining.”

Under the new rules, set to take effect on 1 January 2027, all new hires in container-related businesses at Denmark’s six largest ports—Aarhus, Esbjerg, Kalundborg, Fredericia, Aalborg, and Copenhagen—will undergo background checks. Those with convictions for serious drug offences, money laundering, extortion, or fraud will be barred from employment.

The checks will initially apply only to new employees and those changing jobs within the ports, though Justice Minister Nicolai Wammen said authorities are examining whether to extend the requirements to existing staff.

“We are looking into whether there are other groups, beyond those convicted of serious crimes, who should also be covered,” Wammen said. “But this is a first and very important step.”

Industry groups have welcomed the move. Anne Steffensen, director of Danish Shipping, called it a “very important step” to ensure employees feel safe, while Ulrik Andersen, director of the Port of Aarhus, said strengthened security was a natural response to an evolving threat landscape.