The Social Democrats have proposed extending the "racism clause" so that it becomes illegal to mock or demean people because of their gender identity or gender expression. But the Danish Journalists' Association's deputy chairman, Allan Boye Thulstrup, believes this is too far an interference with freedom of expression.

"It is difficult, but we can not continue to eat from the freedom of speech," he says.

The so-called racism section - Section 266b of the Penal Code - prohibits threatening, mocking or degrading people " because of their race, skin color, national or ethnic origin, religion or sexual orientation". The Social Democrats have proposed adding the concepts of gender identity, gender expression and gender characteristics to the law.

"Freedom of expression is under pressure, and this is not the time to impose more restrictions," said Allan Boye Thulstrup. He emphasizes that the Danish Journalists' Association has not had the opportunity to discuss the proposal, so he expresses his own position.

Department prefers digital education

The Department of Human Rights has also rejected the proposal.

"You have to think really hard before adding an extra group to this provision. It will be a restriction on citizens' freedom of expression, "said director Louise Holck to Ritzau . "I clearly believe we should leave the provision as it is and deal with the problems of hate speech, for example with digital education or other guidelines," she continues. Read more via Journalisten