In a move that is stirring debate across Denmark, the Danish Liberal Party (Venstre) has proposed a ban on prayer rooms (bederum) in schools and other educational institutions . This proposal, introduced by the party’s integration and immigration spokesperson, Hans Andersen (V), is intended to protect individuals from unwanted social pressure.
Proposal aimed at protecting individuals
Hans Andersen (V) explained the rationale behind the proposal:
“We are of the opinion that a ban helps especially women, but also men, to avoid being pressured into something they do not want.”
The proposal comes at a time when media reports have repeatedly highlighted concerns over religious practices within educational settings. For instance, there have been descriptions of a prayer room at University of Copenhagen where a form of gender segregation has been observed. These reports have fueled discussions about whether such spaces inadvertently contribute to social control, particularly within immigrant communities.
Connection to broader social initiatives
The call for a ban follows recommendations made at the end of January by the Commission for the Forgotten Women’s Struggle (Kommissionen for den glemte kvindekamp). The commission’s report, which addressed ways to tackle social control in immigrant communities, revealed that around half of its members supported introducing a ban on prayer rooms. This connection underscores the broader political and social context in which the proposal is being debated.
Balance religious freedom and individuals protection
The proposal by the Danish Liberal Party (Venstre) is part of a wider discussion on how to balance religious freedom with the protection of individuals—particularly in multicultural societies. International observers have noted that similar debates over religious spaces in educational and public institutions are occurring in various European countries, reflecting a growing concern over the potential for social pressure and gender segregation.
As Denmark continues to navigate its policies on integration and secular education, the proposal to ban prayer rooms (bederum) in educational institutions remains a contentious issue. Stakeholders from different sectors are watching closely, weighing the benefits of protecting individual autonomy against the challenges of limiting religious expression in schools.
