Two years after Denmark’s bold decision to legalize the porn industry, evidence shows that instead of reducing the appeal of such content, the move led to an explosion in the production and consumption of adult material.
Danish Foreign Minister Kandid Testrap, who initially proposed the legalization of visual pornography, believed the move would diminish public interest in such content. However, reality proved to be the exact opposite.
The Explosive Growth of the Porn Industry and Social Fallout
Far from reducing the production of adult content, legalizing porn facilitated its widespread proliferation. This development significantly fueled a culture of “free love” and contributed to unethical and violent sexual behaviors. Numerous studies now indicate that Denmark has the highest rate of sexual violence in Europe.
According to data from the Danish Ministry of Justice, approximately 5,100 women are victims of sexual assault each year . However, the University of Southern Denmark estimates this number to be as high as 24,000 women annually . Out of 890 reported cases of sexual assault , only 94 resulted in convictions . These figures highlight a deep flaw in the judicial system and a lack of adequate support for victims.
Criticism of Outdated Laws and Violation of International Standards
Kumi Naidoo , Secretary General of Amnesty International, commented on the situation:
“Despite Denmark’s image as a model of gender equality, the reality is starkly different. Shockingly high levels of impunity for sexual violence, outdated rape laws that do not align with international standards, and the statistics show that women are still treated as commodities in this country.”
Denmark’s current laws on sexual assault have faced widespread criticism. These laws fail to adequately protect victims’ rights and often prevent fair prosecution of sexual crimes. Such deficiencies have discouraged many victims from reporting their cases.
Cultural and Social Impact
The growth of the porn industry has not only increased sexual violence but also brought profound changes to the country’s culture and social relationships. Experts argue that such content has normalized unhealthy and unethical sexual behaviors. This issue has particularly affected younger generations, contributing to the erosion of moral values and emotional relationships.
Denmark’s decision to legalize porn and visual erotica, instead of reducing its appeal, led to its explosive growth and brought devastating consequences for society. Rising sexual violence, inadequate victim support, and violations of international women’s rights standards reveal that this policy not only failed to achieve its goals but also created more serious problems. Today, the Danish government faces a significant challenge: revising its policies and laws to address this moral and social crisis.
shahraranews