The Danish language is facing a critical threat of being overshadowed by English, potentially leading to its decline and the loss of a vital part of Danish identity, according to concerns raised by experts and commentators. With only around six million speakers, Danish is vulnerable in a world where English dominates, particularly in science and technology.

The dominance of English in various sectors is causing worry that Danish might be relegated to a secondary status, impacting its role in science, culture, and everyday life. The fear is that Danish could become a mere dialect, losing its capacity to function as a comprehensive language for all purposes.

Throughout history, Danish has faced challenges, such as the prevalence of Latin among scholars, but it has persevered through conscious efforts to preserve and develop the language. Figures like Ludvig Holberg championed Danish, recognizing its importance to national identity and thought.

The current situation echoes past concerns about protecting the public from what was deemed “cheap writings” or “artistically worthless” content. Today, the focus is on the influence of tech giants’ algorithms and the need to safeguard Danish language and thought from being diluted by foreign content.

There is a call to strengthen the Danish language and freedom of expression as essential pillars of democracy and enlightenment. The ability to articulate nuanced thoughts in one’s mother tongue is considered crucial for critical thinking and development.

Politicians’ power to restrict freedom of expression is a growing concern, with examples of individuals being judged for online statements and intelligence services gaining access to private communications. This trend raises fears of “thought control” and echoes warnings from historical figures like Grundtvig, who advocated for unrestricted freedom of expression.

The situation in Denmark is not unique, as other European countries also grapple with issues surrounding freedom of expression and online censorship. The Economist has noted that Europe faces a problem with freedom of expression.

Preserving the Danish language requires a commitment to its use in all aspects of society, from everyday conversations to scientific discourse. It also entails safeguarding freedom of expression, which is seen as integral to maintaining a vibrant democracy and the ability to shape the world for the better.