The government of Denmark has announced its intention to explore legal avenues that would allow officials to take action against the desecration of the Quran in front of foreign embassies in Denmark. According to a statement by Foreign Minister Lars Lokke Rasmussen on Sunday, the burnings of the holy book of Islam are seen as deeply offensive and reckless acts perpetrated by a small number of individuals who do not represent the values of Danish society.
The decision to pursue legal measures comes in the wake of recent incidents where the Quran was damaged and destroyed during rallies, drawing international attention to Denmark and Sweden. Foreign Minister Rasmussen emphasized that such actions could have significant negative consequences for Denmark, including security concerns.
Rasmussen stated, “The Danish government will therefore explore the possibility of intervening in special situations where, for instance, other countries, cultures, and religions are being insulted.”
Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson also made a separate statement confirming that Sweden is already examining the legal aspects to consider measures to enhance national security and the safety of Swedes in Sweden and abroad. He revealed that he had been in close communication with Mette Frederiksen, his Denmark counterpart, about the issue.
The incidents of Quran burnings have sparked widespread protests in several countries, including Saudi Arabia, Turkey, the United Arab Emirates, Iran, Morocco, Qatar, and Yemen.
One notable incident last week involved two extremist “Danish Patriots” burning an Iraqi flag and a copy of the Quran by trampling on them on a tin foil plate.
Additionally, Salwan Momika, a 37-year-old resident of Iraq who holds Swedish citizenship, also burned several pages of the holy book earlier this month.
The governments of Denmark and Sweden are putting efforts to address and prevent such incidents and aim to uphold respect for religious beliefs and protect the security and harmony of their countries.