Being New in Denmark: Real Life for American Immigrants Living in Denmark
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 29 ก.ค. 2024
- Being New in Denmark: Real Life for American Immigrants Living in Denmark
#Denmark #Danmark #Dansk
This video is all about "Being New in Denmark" and was inspired by some awesome Danish students. They reached out to us on Instagram for some help with a school project. The topic was "being new in Denmark" and involved questions and answers from immigrants living in Denmark.
As foreigners living in Denmark, we are fortunate in many ways, and face some challenges that average Danish people do not. The questions focused on the things that foreigners in Denmark may feel, think, and experience that the average Dane may not realize.
It was super fun for us to chat with the students and help them with this project. Being curious about the world around them will only make Denmark even better for the future of Danes and foreigners alike.
AND WATCH TO THE END FOR OUR HIGH SCHOOL PHOTOS
Questions on being new in Denmark:
Intro - 0:00
How were you received in Denmark? - 0:58
What challenges have you faced? - 2:26
Do you feel treated differently than Danes? - 4:54
What can the state do to help with integration? - 8:01
Anything else to add? - 11:23
Final thoughts - 12:30
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You guys are the sweetest! Thank so you so much for making this video for our project!!
Hej Margrethe! Thank you so much for your insightful questions and curiosity! We loved being able to share our experiences with you all 🤩 🇩🇰
Aren't they though? I almost cried listening to them both describe how differently they were treated, and kind of brushed off when they first came to Denmark and had questions about how to even survive over there.
You guys are great! Your knowledge about Denmark is massive!
I used to teach Danish, and I just want to clear up that when the Danes ask, “So, what are you doing in Denmark?” it is a direct translation from Danish to English on their part. It would usually mean, “What are you occupying your time with/what is your job while you are here?” It does not mean, “Why are you here?” Nor does it insinuate that they don’t understand your choice to be here or that they don’t want you here. It is a simple direct translation by people to whom English is a second language.
which as an american I'm like Omg thank god it's that way that about 90 percent of the population speak decent English
Immigration is a delicate subject in Denmark. It’s my feeling that we Danes in general embrace foreigners and immigrants with warmth and curiosity, if they share our same fundamental values.
However there is a large group of immigrants that just differ too much in culture and values and don’t exercise “samfundssind”. We don’t like that.
Mike and Derek must surely grasp the concepts of "with benefits comes duties" and "contributing to the pot is what also allows you to reach into the pot, when needed".
"Government should get out of the way" is a very American thing to say. In a Danish context, that policy would mean: "No duties, no requirements, complete freedom - but also - no public assistance or services until you pay taxes". This might work well for Mike and Derek, but invites the emergence of a two tiered society with a "lower class" living outside the system.
The World has enough of such places of abuse and misery.
Denmark is a small, delicate country, which would surely be destroyed by such a policy.
Being "vetted" as part of immigrating to Denmark isn't fun, but it's exactly the vetting which allows us to have a country anyone wants to immigrate to.
@@cbboegh In the US, we literally have seniors telling the government not to touch Social Security, as if there's some private company whose business model is to hand out monthly checks to retirees.
@@cbboegh Sorry I can't agree with your definition of what the 'danish' context means - Where does it originate from, what kind of encyclopedia are you refering to?
@@kaninkalle just think logically, and it makes perfect sense.
That was really a nice thing of you to do. I’m sure those girls will have the best project👍🏻☺️
We hope so, they were so sweet when they wrote us and afterwards. Plus we love that they were so interested in the topic of foreigners in their country 😃🇩🇰
Thank you for making this video! We appreciate it so much 🤩
I too often ask newcomers why they chose Denmark, I know they didn't come for the weather at least, but it's always interesting to find out how people from often very far away chose to come to a small far away country they often don't have much prior connection to, so, was it for love? A job? Wanting adventure? Just wanting to get out of your prior country for whatever reason and Denmark was just a random choice. Not meaning to be rude, but as you know, just direct.
Nice to know you pay attention to those details in danish history too. I suppose that's going to come up in episode 412 of why does Denmark exist...
Yeah, we definitely understand the question better now - it’s probably just a phrase that could have different meanings depending on the tone and how it translates haha 😂
We really need to continue with the “why does Denmark exist” series - we are planning to do the next installment in the UK as the North Sea empire came to be, so we wanted to wait for travel to improve. We are looking at early December now 🤦🏻
@@RobeTrotting I look forward to part 2, and take the time you need to do it, better we have to wait a little longer so you can make the episode you want to make.
I think people often see the safety net, both in terms of starting businesses and personal life. Denmark seems to be one of the safest bets when moving - that is when/if you can get in
I'm waiting to move there, for me it's because my family is from there and always made it sound so special, I've been there visiting aunts and uncles. And I fell in love with the friendly spirit and humbleness. It's just so much more home to me then Canada is
Is love to come there for the weather. I live rain and clouds. Hot dry summers, cold dry winters, and constant wind.... yeah, welcome to Wyoming.
7:49 Thank you for scaring the ever living crap out of me!!! :P
Haha, sorry - we’ve had too much fun with the Schmeichel cameos. Didn’t notice the volume was a bit high 😂🇩🇰⚽️
This channel is great. My wife, kid and me also moved from Belgium to Denmark and starting up our business very soon. There so much info in your vids 👌
Hey Steven, we’re so glad to hear that our videos have helped you and your family during your move. Best of luck to you all, especially with the business - exciting times for sure! 😃
@@RobeTrotting Thx. I will keep watching your vids 👌
The surprise Schmeichel made me jump - Nobody expects the Danish fortification!
Yes, that was a horrible attempt to reference Monty Python, shut up
We like to try to fit a Schmeichel in wherever we can. It's kind of a dumb game we have to see if we can insert the word "wall" into every video LOL
Thumbs up for the Monty Python reference! :D
@@RobeTrotting You think that football is a dumb game too? 😆
You two just gained another couple of points in my book!!
Now what is your opinion on curling?
I don’t care much for just about any of the various types of sports, but I don’t mind watching and cheering for our women curling team shuffling granite rocks at the winter olympics.
I find it oddly hypnotic for some reason, even to the point of sometimes finding myself rocking around in my chair as if I was able to nudge the rocks in the right direction, when our team is trying to knock the opponent’s rocks out of the “house” or something. 😄
It nearly gave me a heart attack. 😮😮
I almost fell out my chair because I literally jumped :)
This video was fascinating! Thank you guys!
Thank you, so glad you enjoyed it and thanks for watching Ian 😊🇩🇰
“I need a Dane” - that needs to be on a t-shirt! ❤️
😂 that’s a good idea… we are working on new merch 👕
Thank you for being a friend.
Hey Derek and Mike, i think ts time for me to comment on some of ur content !
Let me start by saying, that i am very proud that our little country, can be home to 2 amazing content creators like you ! I think that you 2 are absolutely fire, not only for taking the plunch and trying your fortune in another country, but also because you relay care ! I am impressed by your curiosity about our way of life, our history and out culture and i will dare to claim that even taking your linguistic skills into account, id say you are most likely just as much Danish by now then a true born Danish citizen ! And i relay mean that ! You are relay interested in our culture (and that is OUR culture! including you 2), you are critical where it is appropriate, you are very much up to date with current trends and views, and last but not least you are very likeable and straight forward! It makes me proud as a Dane, to have a country that welcomes ppl from all over the world, and have them feel like they are part of our little nation, and i think you 2 are a prime example of that. Many ppl speak of integration, i think you 2 can teach us something about that ! Integration goes both ways, and sometimes the ppl that come here bring something that enriches a country and makes it even better. You 2 definitely make Denmark a better place, and i am very thankful for that! Keep up your awesome work and keep on showing the world that no matter who you are, where you come from and what path in life you have chosen, you can always do your part in making this world a better place to to live in !
Many greetings from Middelfart :)
Very interesting project and thank you for your great and honest answers.
I'm always looking forward to watching your videos ^^
Please keep being who you are and doing what you do
Thank you very much for watching and the kind words, we will keep the videos coming and we're super glad you're enjoying our channel 🇩🇰😀
I laughed so loud when you said that at work you went around. I need a dane. I need a dane. I know how different people are treated, especially when they dont have your background. I have worked with people who couldnt even read in their own language, let alone danish. some even had problems with counting.
you guys give some interesting points. And yes it is hard to be new in Denmark. And sadly changing governments make it ridiculously hard to be foreigners here. Which is a pity really, as our nation benefits from various cultures and people coming here to strengthen it.
But sadly it is based on some few that made a mess for the majority. And that is why all the politicians think its a winning case to just make it hard as f... to be a immigrant in Denmark.
But its always nice to see the videos you make and post and you two are the cutest. Keep 'em coming boys and have a great day/week/month ♥
Thank you so much for the kind words. It is tough dealing with the political parts, but we get to vote in our first municipal election this year and we know where we stand with all of the parties 🤷🏻♂️
@@RobeTrotting Oh that's cool. Generally speaking local elections are a lot different than the ones for the parliament. The parties doesn't nearly matter as much locally maybe sometimes if they use money on stupid things more than some other party
Great video guys🥰
Thank you, Ryan! Come back to Denmark soon!!! We can't wait to see your video from here 🇩🇰😀🍻
I think the test for becoming a danish citizen is crazy!!! My brothers wife took it and I tried it and the questions where ridiculous! Also I couldn’t answer half of them even though I was born and raised in Denmark. I wish that we would be more welcoming of people from other countries❤️
You guys are so accommodating..the girls are lucky that you answered back and actually made a whole video for them!
I understand and agree with everything you mentioned about the give and take of integration! but the political climate in DK has 'allowed' the Right to have some issues brought up and made into law, so that other issues (not related) could be handled....
This attitude to foreigners in general, got the chop from the Danes, in the last election, as the Right Wing parties suffered major losses and had no one to sit at the negotiation table with!
It might change in the next election, unfairly I would surmise, as the largest chunk of energy/time in this past election has been about Covid-19 and not much about policy!!
p.s. Derek, have you actively been losing weight? or am I in the wrong, you look good! 👍Take care both of you, the wet winter has arrived 🤣
hello from Hundested 🌸🌱
We were so happy that they were curious about our situation!
And you’re certainly correct about the government following the more radical parties over the edge with the immigration laws under the guise of austerity. It will be an interesting march to the next elections!
And Derek is down a few kilo, we are both trying to get back in the fitness routine which didn’t happen right away when things reopened (plus summer holiday).
Thanks for watching as always 😃🇩🇰
Hello how are you doing
Loved your High School pictures 😆😊💪
We all looked so cool, or not at that time 😄😊
😂 Thanks Kenneth - and you are spot on, those are days we wouldn’t go back to for anything haha
@@RobeTrotting maybe just go back for a day or two 😃😆
And say no goo to one self 😆
I would 😆😆
You guys should really visit Helsingør. I say this because I know you've taken suggestions on places to visit before, and this one is my suggestion. It's 40 minutes train from Copenhagen.
Also big fan of your videos, it's very wholesome and interesting to watch and get some different perspectives on the topic you talk about.
Yes for sure, we have been a few times and love the town and a Kronborg Slot of course 😃🇩🇰
We have taken a few visitors there but never visited Helsingør for a video. There is a topic we want to cover where it would be a good place to include and a travel video there would be great as well. We just need to plan the trip 😆
And thank you so much for watching and your feedback. It’s super nice to hear and means a lot, it keeps us motivated to make more videos 😃
As a Dane who recently moved to Spain. This is wonderful to see that i am not alone in the problem i face. Even from my home country. Also nice to know it gets better. 😁 Keep up the good videos 😊
I can so relate. When I moved to Virginia for 4 years with my parents and sister, like the first year is all about settling in. And you just underestimate how hard and taxing it is.. but when you get over the hump it gets quite profound.. and you feel privileged that you have the freedom to make a move like that.
Immigration has always been messy, right from the start. Before the 50ies or so, like 98% were Danish. We suddenly did well for ourselves, and had a lot of available “trivial” jobs such as fruit seller at a stand, cleaning etc. and a lot of Turks immigrated at that time, and one of our naive perceptions were; that they were here only temporary. And the Turks stationed here for more than a decade having children born here creates new complications. Danish immigration system has always been a mess.
I think the sweet spot is not to compromise our own culture (like stop prohibiting schools, work for selling pork. Don’t celebrate Christmas. Police stations are allowed to raise the Danish flag, etc.), while teaching our culture but not enforce it. It sounds simple, but it’s everything but, and quite quickly the topic can devolve into something completely different while also easily exploited.
One of the ugly truths is, we’ve had many cases with immigrants knowing how the Danish system works before they get in. Our welfare system was very vulnerable to exploitation, because we simply didn’t needed to protect it.
Most of my family work in the public section; nurses, police officers, military and there are far more exploitation going on, than what the public knows about.
I’m happy that the problem isn’t mine to deal with 😅
My cousin he got married to a Colombian man and got his Master and PhD here in Denmark and man… it has been an uphill struggle regarding the immigration. It can be contradictory and rigid - sometimes at best.
As a divorced father, I often wonder how tough it must be to tackle the system, and understanding why and how the system treats people.
Wow you guys looked sooo cute in high school :D Aaww
😂😂😂 We definitely had a look back then LOL
Hi there. Thank you for yourchannel. I am just wondering if it actually could make one in danish sometime
School pictures are supposed to goofy. It is a reminder on where not to go again fashion wise :D
Amen! Wow, we had some interesting choices back then 😂
Denmark are usually very big on immigration, and usually support it big time, unfortententently we just since the 80s had a influx of migrants and refugees that dont wanna integrate in society and rather wanna live for em self isolated, this have done so the debate can be pretty harsh at times, but its general not against migrations, but just one kind of migrants.
I am so easy, the wall thing actually got me again and I snorted out loud. Also the Golden Girls shirt gives me life and I need one of those.
I am not sure if it will become relevant but could I maybe ask you guys some questions regarding a project at some point as well? I am doing a masters course where looking into different experiences with Danish learning for English speakers. It is a focus I would like to take on the assignment but it depends on the people I am working with as well as it is a group thing.
If we can help at all, we would be happy to. Definitely reach out when you’re in the questioning/interview phase and we will gladly participate 😃🇩🇰
Well done, guys.
Tak Frands 😃🇩🇰
Welcome to denemark you to love you videos great intertament
love your pictures!!!!!
Tak Mor 😂
@@RobeTrotting Doxxed? :'D
You would definitely be treated differently if your name were Johnny Smørrebrød, yes. Most likely you’d be treated like an alien spy who thought Ford Prefect’s way of choosing a name was spot on. :-p
😂 Derek always claims that as his Danish alias. He says it helps him pronounce Danish better to assume a Danish identity (at least mentally).
the classic questions is to ask "can you say *rød grød med fløde*" ..
thats more curious/having fun .. coz it sounds kind of funny
but it must have been nice that most people can speak english vs. a country where you are forced to speak something else ;) .. like german
pretty sure they did in one of their videos already ;-) we do get a few danish words or small sentences here and there (we want MOAR though)
And that’s not even a particularly hard thing to say. It’s perfectly possible to make much worse accidental Danish tongue-twisters, i.e., things that you’d actually say that happen to be tongue-twisters, as opposed to bizarre phrases made up for the purpose, like _bispens gipsbisps gipsgebis gisper_ - which no one has ever needed to say in regular conversation.
I was once having lunch with some German friends in a cafe and ordered the smoked trout for two of them. All of them collectively snorted their drinks in a guffaw of disbelief when I ordered _to røgede ørreder_ and firmly refused to believe that was human language until the waiter confirmed he’d understood me perfectly.
(We subsequently created an extended version which is easy enough if you speak Danish well, but impossible otherwise: _døde, røde, rødøjede, røgede ørreder_ ‘dead, red, red-eyed, smoked trout’. But no one will ever be in a situation where that is something they’ll need to say.)
You've mentioned your "bad" Danish several times, though I will say you get points for trying. 😁😁
But I am curious as to how much Danish you understand? Either spoken or written.
In all honesty the first question, how you where received when coming to Denmark and the question on what are you doing in Denmark (I know that’s sounds offensive) it’s all down to how Danes place the pressure when asking questions and we place the same pressure when asking in English and it doesn’t apply and become a offensive question. Sorry ;-)
Yeah, I suspect the question is meant in a self deprecating way, like "why would you move here of all places"
When I meet foreigners I ask: (so) what (on Earth) brings YOU to Denmark? Hoping I come across less inquisitive, when I just want to satisfy my currosity. I always wonder how they found little Denmark on this big globe-
Yes, it definitely took us a few times before we realized it was a self-deprecating way of saying "what on Earth made you move here?" but now we really know it's a kind and curious question to get to know someone better.
When you say “place the pressure”, do you mean how we stress questions (= hvor vi lægger trykket)? Because in general, I don’t think Danes place any more pressure (= lægger pres på) than others when asking questions.
@@kokoshneta your right we don’t place anymore pressure then others but we just tend to place it a tad wrong. “Hvad laver i så i Danmark” “Hvad” is general a word we “push” and with that in mind and translate it to English “What are you doing in Denmark” it gets a negative start on the sentence.
The problem is our generous wellfare that people without any desire to be a part of Denmark, can exploit. Also the wellfare system only works og people shares valuues, and some immigrants does not.
Thats the US’s problem too.
@@jimmybaldbird3853 not even close :)
@@johnandersen8881 yeah it is
@@jimmybaldbird3853 so, what you mean is that US welfare system is as generous as the Danish ? - which means you then have the same issue ?
@@johnandersen8881 yeah, in fact, it is probably more generous considering how much fewer tax we pay. We have massive amounts of freeloaders with their own agendas
The tough imigration laws, (and to that extent getting your famely to denmark via marriage) comes from the previus laws that was unfortunately missused.
Many middle eastern refugees would bring thier entire families with no means to support themselves. And the government wasnt prepared or knew how to handle such situations.
It lead to the creation of first ghettos within low income apartments and otherwise no real efforts being made into intigrations. After that disaster, they tried to spread the refugees and imigrants all over, and disreguarded peoples famely situations, that lead to even more problems.
The patchwork solutions resulted in todays hard stance, red taped and difficult imigration laws.
Denmark has gotten far better at handing the problems that arise from taking in people from war-torn contries. But it has taken to long to get the right measures and the right efforts into place.
in short, shortsightedness and lack of statecraft abilities from the elected officials are responsable for todays mess for expats, refugees and imigrants in general.
The school photos were cool! We can share more if you like 🎓
11:08 I'm fairly certain that if you come to sankt hans and go watch handball with people, then you are considered as much a Dane as you would be considered an american by going to the fourth of July and go out and watch football ;)
Great! We’re in 😂 🇩🇰
Back in 1994, friends gave my immigrant husband a SCO bike and a Fjällräven backbag and said: Så! Nu er du integreret!
I think the Queen summed up the immigration thing pretty well in a New Years speech: “keep your roots, but make sure the soil is fresh.” :)
I moved to Denmark from the Faroe Islands🇫🇴 , and we are technically Danes as well under international and Danish law, even though we are culturally different. For example, I only have Danish citizenship (as do all native Faroese and Greenlanders). But I was asked a lot, and sometimes still am, about what I’m doing here (in a curious way). It doesn’t sound as blunt (or rude) when asked in Danish, but when you translate the question from Danish to English, it sounds much worse than it is.
Faroe islanders and Greenlanders are considered foreigners here by most Danes, even though we are Danish citizens. It isn’t necessarily a negative thing, because I don’t really feel “Danish” in the sense that I had a very different experience growing up, compared to mainland Danes, so there are many cultural things I can’t relate to.
I think the thing with many European countries is that almost all European states eventually developed into ethnostates after many centuries of wars, divided by languages and cultures. That’s why there are sooo many countries in Europe, many smaller than US states.
There are some things I have not heard you mention and that is if you have citizenship or a permanent residence permit or is everything connected to your work so you can be expelled from Denmark if both of you lose your job or become ill and can not work? (and one thing is do you want to become a citizen?)
I myself am Swedish and as I understand it, Denmark is better to integrate and then if compared to Malmö, but for over 30 years, Sweden has placed new arrivals / refugees in the same areas and it has caused them to never get to know others or learn the language so it is required that those who come themselves need to move to areas with several Swedes to be able to integrate and I think you in Denmark have been better at it and then that you have a requirement to be able to speak Danish to become a citizen while in Sweden people do not need to be able to Swedish to get citizenship (starts to change a bit but it goes slowly)
Ah, that is worth mentioning. Currently, Mike has a work visa and Derek came over under family reunification. Both are temporary visas but we will soon qualify for permanent residency (upon completion of Danish language requirements). So at this point we could be sent away if we lose a job.
@@RobeTrotting a thought as it can differentiate family in society and when it comes to visas (do not know how it is in Denmark) for some countries have much stricter requirements so I wonder if you two are married or a less official couple?
and I can only hope there is no problem with work so you do not have to worry about it and that you get a permanent residence permit
The whole removal of some educations taught in English seems like a huge step backwards... I'm fortunate enough to be in an English taught education, since I want to be part of international workplaces, but the policy just seems to only have the goal of making sure foreigners keep out and Danes stay in...
Derek! Didn't know you were in backstreet boys 😂
😂 😂 😂
I thought I was 😂
@@RobeTrotting you wanted it that way😉
Can you include “Janteloven” in one of your videos?
We talk about it in one video - I think Reasons Danes Don’t Like You. Our feelings about it have changed a bit though, so we may have to update it 🤔
hey guys..are you gonna cover christianias 50 year birthday ? this weekend
Oh wow, we had no idea! We will be in town this weekend, do you have any details? I'm not sure they would want any kind of videos produced there, right?
@@RobeTrotting guys..as long as you dont film pusher street or the guards youre fine to film...a lot of music going on for 3 days..and a lot of fun...me and 4 friends are coming from horsens jylland...i like to give you guys a beer if you want..just text me...i can find a programme of the music if you want
@@RobeTrotting also on vadestedet they got this going saturday
We are happy to share that Christiania will be full of life when this spectacular freetown turns 50 years next weekend!
Join your neighbours celebrating Christianias birthday at Vadestedet's garden. The program is packed with live music and DJs. The entrance is for free and you can support Christiania at the bar and food stall.
●●● Long live Christiania ●●●
Program
13: Marc Lalonde(CANADA)
14: Public Transport DJ
15-17: Ras Money
17-18: Fri Galaxe
18-19: The Lost Seamen
19-20: Kejser
21-22: Mavi Express
22-00: Jokke
00-02: Nico
@@RobeTrotting Frieetown Christiania celebrates its 50 years anawersary 💃🇩🇰🕺
who would have thought it would last this long 🙂
allweekend long party is here is the music mnue for Nemo Land outdoor sscene:
Friday 24/9 JOHN VINCENT at 22-03 iin the bar, and saturday Bolværket DK at 15.00 after a couple of houers we got a mega surprise headliner at 20.00 followed by AV AV AV making a party 🛎⛳️🎈
Saturday as always free lunch at kl. 10.00, thi year with a Fernet Branca for the throat ,and Stig Møller sings the birthday anthem with the 2 other legendes Grev Lyhne and Peter Ingemann! what a day
Sundays got a lot of artists..not least Christiania Jam and I kan ikke slå os ihjel show with Christiania Young Flowers and local artists..and finaly closing with, Benny Jamz og Klumben and Raske Penge tfor this years last and best sunday concert kl. 20.00
ps..sorry for my bad spelling..tried to translate as best i could
Hey guys!
I'm sorry you have been met with should I say "short-tempered" people as to either your questions or queries. That's just wrong to do on all fronts.
I can also appreciate how you felt about e.g. photos on a CV. Personally I don't put my photo on my CV, because I don't want an employer to reject med on account of looks. I'm fine with them doing it on grounds of qualifications....but not looks.
Discrimination is a big no-no in my book regardless of _who' you are. If you pay your taxes and otherwise live according to the laws you are a contributor to society...and that's all that matters. Not what gender or sexual orientation you have...not your religion...not anything.
Regarding immigration and integration, IMO the problems which you rightfully mentioned, can be attributed to the "minority" screwing it up for the "majority". That is to say, the few that chose to come here to exploit the system end up making it difficult for those that _don't_ have exploitation in mind - like you two. Examples of the few screwing things up for the many can often be seen at workplaces. Some employees will take advantage of and abuse managements goodwill and "honour system", and what happens? Management punishes _everybody_ instead of just the abusers... And again, IMHO this is _WRONG_ to do. Regarding integration, the biggest problem is with people who come here and lead their lives as a parallel society - even to the extent that they want to introduce the customs of the old country.... _THIS_ is what many Danes have a problem with... I'm one of them. As a pre-teen we lived on Long Island for 7 yrs, and in Sydney, Australia for 3 yrs. Within the confines of the house everything was Danish, but out and about we obeyed and respected the laws and customs of each society. If I was being disobediant, my parents would ask me og I wanted them to reprimand me in English so everyone could understand - which I of course didn't.
I'd like to thank you both once again for your great and always interesting posts. I'd like at some point in the future to run into you both, sit down over a coffee and have a chat about all sorts of stuff. You come across as very affable guys 👍👍
Take care...stay safe! 👋👋
Hej Peter, thanks for watching and your thoughtful comment. It seems like you’ve been through a lot of the same things regarding living abroad and integrating. It must have been so interesting for you growing up in multiple countries and cultures. It would be great to chat about it over a coffee, I hope our paths cross and ww get the chance 😃🇩🇰
@@RobeTrotting - My pleasure! 👍 Ohhh I've had my share of positive and negative experiances 😉 Who knows... maybe one day when society is more normal... hopefully in 2022 😊👍
Finally someone who knows what integrations means, and say it.
Note, it does NOT means that foreign should be assimilated into danish society, as some politicians says...
It’s a tricky subject, but integration can be a lot of things. Pluralism is fantastic and makes more sense than complete assimilation - example, we celebrate American Thanksgiving AND Midsommer but it’s because we embrace two cultures just as some people are able to speak two languages.
fantastic video in making. i will be iterated over in asking me for something i will probably even do together show i move to usa. okay ask what do not quite understand is the new country you are came to in is always welcome to ask me I am ready to help what I can👍🏻😊
Do you think that the American culture of vilification influenced your concerns and expectations, concerning your interactions in Denmark?
Do you mean how immigrants are vilified in America? In that sense we were a bit naive and assumed that Denmark was above that, and even for the first six months or so we really focus on Danish politics enough to notice. And then the former government started bowing to the DF and that changed our ability to get Danish lessons and there was more to come in the current government where we were not as impacted but some friends lost their ability to get permanent residency because of policies enacted.
@@RobeTrotting That is exactly what I meant and this situation is what is impacting my destination decision. Thank you so much, for your succinct reply!
I think one of the reasons why the government have strict immigration rules is that some people come to Denmark without contributing and/or integrating with the society. That unfortunately means that other immigratns gets "punished" because the government try to avoid getting those kind of immigrants and then make some strict rules about it. And the government is usually not that flexible with the rules. I think there is some good intentions with the rules but in way too many cases the rules doesn't make much sense.
That’s the case for sure, even in America and other countries. It unfortunately restricts everyone equally, and immigrants like us cost Denmark very little because we were not educated here and are likely only here during our working (tax-paying) years. We actually pay in more than we will ever take out.
Agreed
The biggest problem is the way that the government has done it. Put migrants into blocks that run parallels to ethnic danes.. So there is not to much mixing.
So now you have certain areas of mono culture.. Should have made sure to spread out, so you are kind "forced" to integrate and make friends.
I love my country. And i also hope we keep fighting for what makes us so great.. not that we dont have alot to improve on.
love the content :)
Hello guys, another nice video. I just had a thought: I believe you have the right as residents to vote in the upcoming elections for communes and regions. If I am right about that, have you given any thoughts to this, and will you be voting? I doubt you want to talk about your political opinion, which is fine, I just wonder if you will participate or if you think that these matters don't concern you, or that you don't know enough to vote, for example.
I just checked, it would seem that you have voting right if you've lived in Denmark for four years. If you moved here in 2017, that might be the case.
Yes! In fact we are very excited about the chance to vote in Denmark for the first time, although it's only for the municipal elections. We will have to move towards citizenship before we are eligible to vote for the national elections, but it's still exciting to take part in the process this year 🇩🇰😀
Regarding those photos at the end there..
🤓NERDS!!
😄 But nowhere near as much as my 6th, 7th, and 8th. grade school photos. (And don’t you even dare THINK of asking about my 9th. and 10th. grade photos. 🤦♂️ They were train wrecks. Or more to the point, I looked like a train wreck victim in both of them. Granted, I wasn’t exactly Chippendale model material to begin with, but DAMN I was an ugly geek. 🤓)
😂 Oh yes, old photos are such a blessing! At least we are all late bloomers, but if you ever feel like sharing we would happily view yours Bo haha 🇩🇰😃
@@RobeTrotting 😈 Be careful with what you wish for! 😁
Love ur vids...as a black man always wanted to visit Denmark. Tell me how do you deal with all the dark for so many months in a row?
It’s a great and beautiful country with so much history and culture! The dark winters can be tough, but it’s really pretty at Christmas and then the second half of winter can be nice and cozy at home - and then it’s a countdown to spring haha
Sex, drugs, and rock an' Roll :-))
We sort of semi hibernate. Stay in, turn on the lights, and the music. Good food, and good company bring us through
Hey James. Afrowanders did a video on visiting Copenhagen if you're interested. He's a really chill and humorous dude: th-cam.com/video/HPXTGr48nME/w-d-xo.html
@@ane-louisestampe7939 Just because you're a degenerate doesn't mean everyone else is.
Wow...the pukka necklace. Channelling n'sync much?
The society in the Nordic countries is very different from the rest of the world. The state must proactively provide for all their needs for citizens, businesses and the country, generally without controlling your private affairs in the home, family, working conditions as well as the constitutional rights. Trade unions can, however, enter into an agreement with the workplace.
Historically, however, it has not always been so good. In 600 dark years, in the small ice age, the Nordic countries have been very poor, this was in 10.-16. century. During this period it was the counts of the nobility and the Christian church who had the power.
300 years ago, the peasants and the king entered into a collaboration and took power, then everyone had to learn to read, then came the cooperative movement, and the state, which had to proactively work for the common good. Some of this culture dates back to the Viking Age.
We must all provide what we are best at and can. Companies need to produce and generate profits. The public sector must proactively facilitate citizens and companies with basic research, education, health, pensions, flexicurity, infrastructure and supplies.
Samfundet i Norden er meget forskellig fra resten af verdenen. Staten skal proaktivt for borgere, virksomheder og land levere alle deres behov, generalt uden at styre dine private forhold i hjemmet, familien, arbejdsforhold samt de grundlovs sikrede rettigheder. Fagforeninger kan dog indgå overenskomst med arbejdspladsen.
Historisk har det dog ikke altid været så godt. I 600 mørke år, i den lille istid, har Norden været meget fattigt, dette var i den 10.-16. århundrede. I denne periode var det adlens grever og den kristne kirke som havde magten.
For 300 år siden indgik bønderne og kongen et samarbejde og tog magten, siden skulle alle lære at læse, så kom andelsbevægelsen, og staten, der proaktivt skulle arbejde for det fældes bedste. Noget af denne kultur stammer helt tilbage til vikingetiden.
Vi skal alle yde med det vi er bedst til og kan. Virksomhederne skal producere og skabe overskud. Det offentlige skal proaktivt facilitere borgere og virksomheder med grundforskning, uddannelse, sundhed, pension, flex security, infrastruktur og forsyninger.
Aww you even got the black+red work-books. You're more Danish than I am now..
Edit: Europe and the US have very different ideas on the extent of Government; once there's a Welfare system (worthy of the name..), then the State accepts more responsibility in return for more control and influence over the internal markets. It's a big part of why our labour laws are so good, in comparison. Citizens accept more regulation in return for a higher bottom step (higher standard of living for all, less difference between the richest and poorest) and a dependable safety-net. For the most part, that system works better in more places than the US model does, many European nations have run with versions of the US model in their own past but in the same way a teenager has different wants and needs to a 35 year old, then European nations are, for the most part, in a different place to the US in the 'curve' of their country and culture as well as their intended destinations. Different histories mean different lessons - current and past fads and fashions of culture aside - the bumps even out when seen in the bigger picture. The issue is when it goes too far to the other side and there is no freedom - either actual or imagined.
I find it very wrong that you basically are anonymous when looking for jobs and such when you search in the US. I hope it never get like this here.
In terms of migration I'm basically like it's a personal responsibility. But I agree on the different legislations being changed often makes it harder for a lot of people and especially those the politicians actually don't mind coming here.
Yeah, it feels a bit odd when we look back at how anonymous hiring can be in the States and the length that some companies go to for a “more fair” process. With the history of America, it does make sense but there are so many other barriers to access that need work - for example at least in Denmark EVERY kid has access to higher education regardless of their parents financial situation.
You forgot to say "enjoying apple pie" in order to be American ;-)
Hahaha apple pie and baseball ⚾️ 🥧
My own position on politics is true liberal...
Let whoever in that doesn't strain the system. We should open our borders more, but don't provide much govt. support for those that haven't been here long enough to have earned it.
I believe in free economy and free movement. Basically personal freedom.
Edit: when that's said, I feel that we have a responsibility to the world, when we've f#cked up somewhere, we better take the refugees seriously.
I have been seberated from my husband for more than 4 years, because they make it so dificalt to be married With someone outside Europe.
Hello Nicole, how are you doing
Well the goverment is in general in the way, no matter what, where or who you are.
True! Definitely not unique to DK in that sense 😅
And don’t forget … the “danish way” of being happy and content, is to have something to complain about. Weather is #1 … government a strong #2. 😉
You are so cute
Tak 😊
Denmark has by now, a reputation of beeing one of the most hostile countrys to forigners, mostly from non westly countrys. It has roots from the 80 where there was ression and goverment welcome at lot of refugees from Iran and Irak. With out Any questions asked. No need to say we got a lot of rif raf and to this Day ther decentents suffer a lot of bulling andre living in ghettos. No its a hard life beeing a get to child today in DK. 🙄
Yes, it’s a bit sad but also super complicated. Denmark was the first country to sign onto the UN Refugee Convention in 1951, its sad to see those values diminished for any reasons.
How fortunate you could get away when Trump got in office. I envy you. Sorry for the politics. I'm from Minnesota.