Denmark's parliament adopts law banning Quran burnings

Friday 08 December 2023 - 09:15

By: Dakir Madiha

Denmark's parliament adopts law banning Quran burnings

Copenhagen - The Danish parliament voted on Thursday to criminalize the desecration of holy scriptures, effectively prohibiting provocative acts such as Quran burnings that stirred controversy across Muslim nations earlier this year.

The newly enacted law, passed with a majority vote of 94-77, renders it illegal to "inappropriately treat" religious texts deemed sacred by any registered religious community. Specific actions, such as burning, tearing, or otherwise destroying books in public or through online videos, are now in violation of the statute.

Justice Minister Peter Hummelgaard stated that the measure is intended to address "systematic insults" against faith groups, particularly in response to anti-Islam provocateurs who destroyed Qurans during protests last summer. In reaction to the circulated videos, Muslim leaders condemned the desecrations and called for the comprehensive protection of religious freedom.

Individuals found in violation of the law may face potential fines or imprisonment for up to two years. Parliament plans to review and potentially revise the legislation after a three-year assessment period.

Hummelgaard emphasized that the statute aims to strike a balance between protecting religious freedoms and upholding Denmark's longstanding commitment to free expression. Critics argue that the ban encroaches on civil liberties, while supporters contend that it provides necessary safeguards for religious communities while still allowing room for non-violent protest and acts of conscience.