Reading the 46 chapters of the book in 328 pages, leaves one in a foggy atmosphere of Samsam’s story first as part of a criminal milieu, then as a warrior in the civil war in Syria, and lately as a secret agent for intelligence services (PET & EF) and his imprisonment in both countries Spain and Denmark. A young man of syrian origins, born in Denmark, falling between two chairs-his past & present concerning identity, believes and goals of life. One can appreciate highly the courage of the journalists, especially in Berlingske tidende & DR who followed his case while in prison and revealed many secrets concerning Samsam’s work as a secret agent for the Danish Intelligence services &refusal of the latter to recognize their collaboration with & recruitment of Samsam . One of the main challenges of our modern era is the relationship between the three main authorities of the state -judiciary, legislative and executive – and the possibility for accountability of the intelligence services in front of the gudgies and by consequence the openness for the people whom these agencies work for.
I read earlier the book of an earlier chef of EF, Lars Findsen, & how he was followed by other sister intelligence services, who had spent months eavesdropping on his daily life at home, recording hundreds of hours of his conversations in his home, observing even his personal sexual life & accusing him of stealing bicycles!.
Defending the interests of the state against our or inside enemies demand also accountability and openness in front of elected committees who represent the people, in orden to prevent using excessive powers under the cover of protecting the interest of the State. Samsam’s book is an enjoyment to read, and showed details of the few who were born here, and failed to integrate in their social surroundings. It showed as well the orientalist mentality that still dominate certain authoritarian circles, whether in denmark or Europe generally, when dealing with Arabs & Islam.
