From VICE · Jillian Drachman · · 1m 20s
Denmark's Teacher Restraint Plan Sparks Debate
Denmark plans to let teachers physically restrain disruptive students from 2027, sparking protests and concerns over safety.
In brief
Denmark plans to let teachers physically restrain disruptive students from 2027, sparking protests and concerns over safety. Denmark will allow teachers to physically restrain primary-school students from August 2027 after a bill passed, despite protests over safety risks. Originally reported by VICE.
Denmark's Teacher Restraint Plan
Denmark plans to let teachers physically restrain disruptive primary-school students starting August 2027.
Current School Violence in Denmark
In 2025, physical violence occurred in at least 55% of Danish classrooms according to a Ministry of Education survey.
Teachers' Fear of Violence
One in three teachers avoided physical contact due to fear of job loss, and one in five classes saw teachers targeted by violence.
Proposed Restraint Rules
Teachers may use physical force only as a last resort, gently and briefly to guide students out of classrooms.
Parent Notification Requirement
Parents must be notified if teachers use physical force against their children.
Concerns About Special Needs
The plan risks emotionally scarring children with special needs and may not distinguish between genuine issues and external circumstances.
Teacher Retention Crisis
One in four US public school teachers plan to quit within a year due to job stress and lack of respect.
The headline
Denmark will allow teachers to physically restrain primary-school students from August 2027 after a bill passed, despite protests over safety risks.
