Denmark proposes law allowing teachers to use physical intervention

Danish Education Minister Magnus Heunicke has proposed a new law that would expand the circumstances under which teachers and school staff can use physical intervention with students. If passed, the legislation would allow staff to hold a student, keep them in place, or move them to another room against their will if they significantly disrupt lessons or cause psychological harm to others.

Currently, since 1967, physical intervention in Danish schools has been largely restricted to cases where a student poses a danger to themselves, others, or school property. The proposed reform follows reports of rising violence and aggressive behavior in schools. Data indicates that physical violence was reported in at least 55 percent of classrooms during 2025, with higher rates in lower grades.

The Ministry emphasizes that physical intervention must remain a last resort, following attempts at verbal de-escalation. Heunicke stated that teachers should not face uncertainty or fear of dismissal when intervening in necessary, escalating situations to maintain order.