The Presidium of the Danish Parliament’s decision to exclude debate on Palestine from the upcoming school election has sparked controversy, with several organizations claiming their concerns have been misinterpreted. Speaker Søren Gade defends the decision, citing an assessment from the Agency for Education and Quality.

The exclusion stems from a “letter of concern” sent to the Danish Parliament by organizations like the Danish Teachers’ Association and Danish School Students following the 2024 school election. These organizations assert that their intention was not to deselect specific topics, but to address the manner of discussion and materials used during the election.

Regitze Spenner Ishøy, chairman of School and Students, emphasized that the letter aimed to prevent students from feeling “shamed,” referencing criticism of a campaign by the Danish People’s Party Youth (DFU) that distributed fake airline tickets.

Søren Gade argues that the Israel-Palestine conflict is too complex for the limited time available during the School Election, emphasizing that the topics serve as a means to educate students about democracy. He maintains that the decision to exclude Palestine was based on the Agency for Education and Quality’s professional assessment.

The school election, held every two years for students in 8th-10th grade, aims to strengthen young people’s democratic education and political self-confidence. The election simulates a parliamentary election campaign, culminating in an election night at Christiansborg where results are broadcast on national television.