Title: Denmark Increases Border Controls in Response to Koran Burnings
Subtitle: Similar Measures Taken by Sweden as Governments Mull New Laws
Date: August 4, 2023
OSLO – Following a series of recent incidents involving the burning and desecration of the Koran, Danish police have announced tightened border controls in an effort to maintain security, according to the justice ministry. This decision comes in the wake of a similar move made by Sweden earlier in the week.
Anti-Islam activists in both Denmark and Sweden have been responsible for burning and damaging several copies of the Muslim holy book in recent months. These actions have incited outrage in the Muslim world, leading to calls for governments to ban such acts.
In a statement released on Thursday, the Danish ministry stated, “Authorities have today concluded that it is necessary at this time to increase the focus on who is entering Denmark, in order to respond to the specific and current threats.”
Initially, these tighter border controls will be in place until August 10.
Justice Minister Peter Hummelgaard acknowledged the impact of the recent Koran burnings on the security situation, stating, “The recent Koran burnings have, as the security police have said, affected the current security situation.”
Sweden has also decided to tighten its border controls in response to the same issue.
Both governments are actively condemning the burnings and considering the introduction of new laws that could effectively prevent such actions. However, critics argue that these measures would undermine the freedom of speech protected in their respective constitutions.
It is important to note that Muslims consider the Koran to be the literal word of God. Consequently, any act of desecration, whether actual or alleged, often ignites widespread protests within the Muslim world.
The Danish and Swedish governments’ response to this issue reflects their commitment to maintaining social harmony and protecting religious sensitivities.
Reporting by Terje Solsvik; Editing by Tom Hogue, Robert Birsel