Denmark: Teachers could restrain students in exceptional situations, amid rising violence in schools

Denmark is preparing a bill that would allow teachers to use physical force to restrain a student or move them to another room against their will in exceptional situations. The measure is being proposed amid rising violence in schools and teachers’ concerns that they could be penalized if they intervene.

At present, teachers may use force only when a student poses a danger to themselves, those around them or school property. The new bill, drafted by the Ministry of Education following calls from the teachers’ union, stipulates that any intervention must be proportionate and may not be used as punishment. Parents and the municipal council would be informed after each incident.

Education Minister Magnus Heunicke said teachers must clearly understand what they can do when a situation escalates and should not fear losing their jobs if they intervene in a violent incident.

A Ministry of Education survey published on October 1 shows that in 2025, physical violence between students was reported at least once in 55% of classes. In 36% of these classes, incidents occurred monthly. One in three teachers avoided physical contact for fear of the consequences.

The use of force in Danish schools was effectively banned for nearly six decades following the prohibition of corporal punishment in 1967. The bill resembles legislation in England, where only reasonable force is permitted, strictly when necessary to prevent injuries or restore order.