Copenhagen Business School (CBS) has been ordered to pay four students 101,250 kroner each following a 2019 incident involving a sexually suggestive party invitation. The case, dubbed “Slutty Fall Break,” has raised questions about the balance between freedom of speech, party culture, and creating a safe learning environment within educational institutions.

The incident involved a Facebook invitation to a party where students were encouraged to dress provocatively and engage in suggestive behavior. CBS initially responded by expelling the students involved for nine months, effectively delaying their studies by a year.

However, the Ombudsman ruled in 2022 that the expulsion was disproportionate, leading to the recent court order for compensation. Two additional students have filed claims for a higher amount, which are still pending.

Professor Michael Gøtze from the University of Copenhagen argues that the compensation awarded is excessively high, particularly when compared to compensation in severe child abuse cases. He highlights the “cross-pressure” faced by institutions like CBS, which must navigate traditional drinking cultures while addressing concerns about offensive behavior.

The case highlights a broader struggle for Danish universities in managing student parties and intro courses, where alcohol often plays a significant role. Some institutions have implemented measures like limiting alcohol strength or introducing alcohol-free orientation activities in an attempt to balance tradition with responsible behavior.