Denmark proposes law allowing teachers to use physical intervention

The Danish government has proposed a controversial legislative reform that would allow teachers to use physical intervention to manage aggressive or disruptive students. Under the proposed rules, which are intended to take effect in August 2027, educators could temporarily immobilize a student, hold them in place, or escort them to another room against their will in exceptional circumstances.

The proposal follows reports of rising violence in schools. A Ministry of Education study indicated that physical violence between students was reported in at least 55% of classes in 2025, with incidents occurring monthly in 36% of those classrooms. The reform aims to provide teachers with clear legal boundaries, as the Danish Teachers' Union reported that one in three teachers currently avoids physical contact to restore calm due to fear of professional repercussions.

The measure is strictly limited to non-punitive physical intervention. It does not authorize corporal punishment, such as hitting or slapping, which has been banned in Denmark since 1967. Any use of force must be proportional to the situation and used only after less intrusive methods have been exhausted. Additionally, schools will be required to inform parents and local authorities whenever such an intervention occurs.