Denmark’s Parliament Set to Debate Bill Against Quran Desecration
The proposed legislation aims to make it a criminal offense to treat a text of significant religious importance for a religious community in an inappropriate manner, whether in public or with the intention of wider dissemination. The legal steps to ban Quran desecration comes months after such events draw a strong backlash from Muslim countries and organizations.
Offenders could face up to two years in prison if found guilty. According to national police figures, Denmark witnessed 483 incidents of book burnings or flag burnings between July 21 and October 24 of this year, AFP reported.
Originally announced in August, the bill has undergone amendments due to criticism that its initial version impinged on freedom of expression and would be challenging to enforce.
The justice ministry clarified that the revised legislation now specifically targets the improper treatment of scriptures with significant religious importance. The bill was initially intended to cover objects of religious significance more broadly.
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The first draft faced opposition from some people who viewed it as a revival of Denmark's abolished blasphemy law from 2017. Law enforcement and judicial officials also expressed concerns about the practicality of enforcement.
"The changes we are now proposing will make the law easier to implement, including for the police and the courts," said Justice Minister Peter Hummelgaard in a statement last month, citing an increased terrorist threat against Denmark.
If passed, the new legislation will be incorporated into chapter 12 of Denmark's penal code, which focuses on matters related to national security.
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In 2006, the country experienced a wave of anger and violence across the Muslim world following the publication of cartoons depicting the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).
After its first reading, the bill will undergo scrutiny by a committee before two additional readings and a final vote.
Source: Agencies
