A recent study has revealed that homophobic views are prevalent in Denmark, prompting calls for political action and sparking debate over the role of education in addressing the issue. The study, conducted by researchers from Statens Serum Institut and Aalborg University, found that more than one in five Danish citizens consider sexual intercourse between persons of the same sex to be morally unacceptable.

The findings have led LGBT+ Denmark to urge politicians to strengthen sex education in schools. Susanne Branner Jespersen, head of secretariat at LGBT+ Denmark, believes that education can help counteract homophobia and reduce mental health problems faced by sexual minorities.

However, this proposal has met with resistance from some quarters. Martin Ågerup, a liberal debater and author, argues that it is not the school’s job to dictate societal views on homosexuality. He cautioned against what he sees as a potential “tyranny of opinion,” emphasizing the importance of allowing individuals to hold differing views as long as they do not harass or harm others.

According to the study, homophobic views are particularly widespread in Muslim environments and smaller Christian congregations, movements, and religious communities such as Indre Mission and Jehovah’s Witnesses.

Morten Frisch from Statens Serum Institut, who initiated the study, has emphasized the need for political action to address homophobia and physical violence against homosexuals in Denmark. He suggested that strengthened sex education in schools could be a helpful measure.

Ågerup, while acknowledging the study’s findings, believes that calls for immediate political action are premature. He pointed out that the study also indicates that only a minority of those with homophobic views actually want to interfere with the rights of homosexuals, such as banning same-sex marriage.

Ågerup also highlights that the study paints a picture of growing acceptance of homosexuality, particularly among younger generations. He suggests that societal norms and values evolve gradually and that imposing change from above may not be the most effective approach.