In a first, Denmark charges two individuals in Quran desecration case

For the first time in Denmark, two individuals were charged with derogatory treatment of the Holy Quran after the enactment of legislation in 2023 that criminalises desecration of the Islamic holy book.

In a statement issued by the prosecutor's office, the suspects were charged under Section 110 E(2) of the Danish Criminal Code, which outlines the punishment for the disrespectful treatment of religious scriptures.

Denmark’s Justice Minister allowed the case to proceed. 

According to prosecutor Lise-Lotte Nilas, the incident occurred on June 15, 2024, when the suspects allegedly mistreated the holy book of Muslims at a public festival on the island of Bornholm. 

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The suspects reportedly mishandled the Holy Quran in a tent to share the act with a broader audience. 

"It is our assessment that in connection with the event during the People's Festival, improper treatment of a Quran took place and that it happened in public, as it was attended by a number of people and also spread to a wider circle by being filmed and live-streamed via Facebook," the statement read. 

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Public Prosecutor Lise-Lotte Nilas confirmed that a penalty has been sought for the individuals involved. The case has been referred to the Court of Bornholm for scheduling, although a trial date has yet to be announced.