A recent study in Denmark has revealed a significant disparity in attitudes towards homosexuality between Muslims and the general population, prompting concern from LGBT+ advocacy groups and government officials alike. The findings, drawn from a large survey on sexual habits, indicate a higher prevalence of homophobic views within the Muslim community compared to non-religious Danes or members of the Danish National Church.

The study, based on questionnaire responses from over 30,000 Danish citizens, showed that a substantial percentage of Muslim men and women expressed limited or no acceptance of same-sex relationships. Specifically, the research indicated that a notably larger proportion of Muslims hold homophobic views compared to the broader Danish population.

Minister for Immigration and Integration Kaare Dybvad described the findings as “deeply, deeply problematic,” acknowledging the resistance to homosexuality within certain segments of the population. He highlighted the significance of this data in the context of discussions about Danish values.

LGBT+ Denmark has also responded to the study’s findings, with the head of secretariat, Susanne Branner, acknowledging the need for a more structured effort to address the issue. She expressed a willingness to take responsibility for past sensitivities on the matter and emphasized the importance of holding Muslim organizations accountable.

The study’s findings have sparked debate about potential solutions, with Minister Dybvad suggesting that efforts can be made in primary and secondary education to promote tolerance and understanding. He also stressed the importance of controlling immigration to ensure that a large influx of people with homophobic attitudes does not negatively impact the experience of homosexual individuals in Denmark.

Chief Physician Morten Frisch from Statens Serum Institut, who initiated the study, stated that Muslims are “extremely overrepresented when it comes to homophobic attitudes.”