The European Court of Human Rights is interpreting “inhuman and degrading treatment” too broadly, which is limiting the ability of member states to deport foreign criminals, the Minister for Justice Jim O’Callaghan has said. It is understood that Denmark is frustrated with people who have successfully evaded deportation, if they can argue that they would suffer cruel or degrading treatment in their home country. Mr O’Callaghan was speaking as part of a meeting of justice ministers at the Council of Europe, to discuss the European Convention on Human Rights and migration. Some have successfully argued they would face cruel or degrading treatment in their home country. A spokeswoman for Mr O’Callaghan confirmed he believes that “the European Court of Human Rights has interpreted Article 3 on inhuman and degrading treatment too broadly”.

Source: The Irish Times December 10, 2025 21:57 UTC