A recent survey has revealed that a significant portion of the Danish population harbors homophobic views, with particularly high rates observed among religious groups. The study, part of the larger Project SEXUS, surveyed 31,808 Danish citizens aged 15 to 89 about their attitudes towards homosexuality.
The survey found that 22% of respondents held homophobic views. This figure breaks down to 29% of men and 14% of women. Older individuals, those from socially disadvantaged backgrounds, and those with poor health or limited sex lives were over-represented in this group.
Religious communities showed the highest rates of homophobia. Among male members of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 87% considered homosexual intercourse morally unacceptable, while the figure was 82% for female members. Within Indre Mission, the numbers were 75% and 69% respectively. In comparison, the figures for non-religious Danish women and men were 8% and 19%.
The survey also highlighted concerning figures within the Muslim community. Sixty percent of religiously inclined Muslim men believed that same-sex relations are morally unacceptable, compared to 48% of Muslim women. A researcher noted that Muslim men in Denmark are almost four times more likely to be homophobic than non-homophobic, while Muslim women are twice as likely.
Homophobia is not merely an outdated mindset but a significant social issue. Instances of violence against LGBT+ individuals occur regularly. Data indicates that thousands of LGBT+ individuals in Denmark experience violence annually due to their sexuality. Previous findings from Project SEXUS have also demonstrated that homosexual and bisexual individuals are more prone to loneliness, anxiety, depression, self-harm, and suicidal thoughts compared to heterosexuals.
Experts emphasize the importance of sex education in combating homophobia. Studies suggest that even brief sex education courses can reduce homophobic tendencies in young people. There are calls for increased focus on sex education in primary schools and Muslim private schools as a crucial step in addressing this problem.