
Denmark has filed its first case under the newly enacted law banning the desecration of the Quran. Two individuals have been charged with “inappropriate treatment of a Quran” during a public event in June. This Quran Desecration Law was implemented following a series of Quran burnings that sparked outrage in the Muslim world.
Denmark has filed its first case under a new law that bans the desecration of the Quran, authorities revealed on Friday. The legislation was introduced in response to public outrage over several incidents of holy book burnings. Moreover, it also aims to prevent acts deemed disrespectful towards religious texts.
Two individuals, whose identities remain undisclosed, have been accused of “inappropriate treatment of a Quran” during a festival held in June. This event brought together people from political, economic, and social sectors. According to officials, the alleged actions were public, witnessed by several people, and streamed live on Facebook, broadening their audience significantly.
Prosecutor Lise-Lotte Nilas stated that the incident violated the new law. It came into effect on December 7, 2023, shortly after being passed. This legislation forbids public acts such as burning, tearing, or defiling religious texts, including the Quran. In addition, especially when such actions are intended to be widely disseminated through videos or other means. Violators face penalties ranging from fines to up to two years in prison.
The law was enacted following a series of Quran desecrations in Denmark and neighboring Sweden, which triggered widespread protests and condemnation from Muslim-majority countries. The Danish government introduced the law to address growing concerns about religious intolerance and to maintain social harmony.
Danish media reported that as of January 22, police were investigating eight cases potentially breaching the new law. The legislation marks a significant step in Denmark’s efforts to curb acts that offend religious sentiments and provoke international tensions.
This case highlights Denmark’s commitment to enforcing the ban and balancing the principles of freedom of expression with respect for religious beliefs. The outcome of this first legal challenge under the new law will likely set the tone for future cases.