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Denmark Files First Case Under New Quran Desecration Law

The case filed by Copenhagen's prosecution authority is expected to set a precedent for how such laws will be enforced moving forward.

Denmark has taken significant legal action regarding the desecration of the Quran, marking a notable shift in its approach to freedom of expression and religious sensitivity.

On January 24, 2025, the Danish prosecution authority filed its first case under a new law that prohibits the desecration of holy texts, including the Quran.

This law was enacted in December 2023 following a series of public Quran burnings that sparked widespread protests and diplomatic tensions with Muslim-majority countries.

The Danish parliament passed the law on December 7, 2023, with a vote of 94 to 77. The legislation makes it illegal to “inappropriately treat” any writing or object of significant religious importance, with penalties including fines or imprisonment for up to two years for violators.

Justice Minister Peter Hummelgaard emphasized that the law aims to protect Denmark’s security and improve its international relations, particularly in light of recent anti-Islam protests that had escalated tensions globally.

The decision to implement this law was largely influenced by over 500 demonstrations in Denmark throughout 2023, where activists burned copies of the Quran. These acts drew severe backlash from Muslim communities worldwide and prompted calls for action from various political and social groups within Denmark.

The Danish government has stated that while it values freedom of expression, there must be limitations when such expressions threaten national security or diplomatic relations.

The case filed by Copenhagen’s prosecution authority is expected to set a precedent for how such laws will be enforced moving forward.

Saman Siddiqui

I am a freelance journalist with a Master’s Degree in Mass Communication and an MS in Peace and Conflict Studies. Since 2006, I have been involved in various capacities within the electronic media industry. At OyeYeah, I cover diverse genres ranging from journalism and fiction to fashion, including reviews and fact-finding reports.

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