Red, yellow, brown, and every color variation in-between now adorn the sky and the streets. It’s that time of year when you find joy in playing with the fallen leaves, while you walk or play in the park with your kids or friends.
Three main subjects have occupied the minds of the people in Denmark this week. First, a high school reform. As you can imagine, it has triggered a lot of response, as students here are quite used to reacting if something feels unfair. Second, the Israel/Gaza conflict, as the number of violent episodes connected to it in Denmark has increased. And last, online bullying experienced by young people.
Let’s start with the first subject, high school reform. You can read more about its content lower in the “Politics – Focus” section. One main point stood out – the closure of 10th grade in the “folkeskolen.” That year is usually used by young people who are not ready to choose what to study further or who need an extra year of preparation before moving to the next level. The idea angered several politicians, business leaders, school leaders, and student organizations who are now putting pressure on the government to drop the idea before the reform becomes legislation this autumn.
Next is the Israel/Gaza conflict. Last week, the prime minister called for public demonstrations against “anti-semitism.” Why? The police have charged several people for violence against Jewish people and places. At the same time, a recent opinion poll shows that almost half of people in Denmark believe that Israel has gone too far in its attack on Gaza. This opinion was also shared by the foreign minister, Lars Løkke Rasmussen.
Lastly, a terrifying subject for parents: online bullying aimed at children and young people. If your child has been exposed to digital abuse or unpleasant online content, contact RedBarnet at 29270101. The Minister of Justice also encourages people to contact the police. The discussion was triggered by an anonymous Instagram account in Horsens that publishes gossip about various young people in the city.
Thank you for reading and sharing Last Week in Denmark!
P.S. – Check out the best nature photographers in the world! If you were hunting for the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis), you might have encountered another rare sky phenomenon. They call it “Steve” – you can have your own opinion about it.
