UN criticizes Denmark’s disability failures

Denmark has received criticism from the United Nations for failing to meet the standards of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. The Danish Disability Organizations (DH) highlighted variability in support provided by municipalities, an unachieved reduction in the use of force in psychiatry, and the Folketing’s easing of restrictions on the use of force against disabled individuals. Thorkild Olesen, Chairman of the DH, calls for urgent action from the government and politicians. The Danish Institute for Human Rights’ director, Louise Holck, stresses the need for political action in response to the criticism. Denmark has not fully implemented the convention into national law since ratifying in 2009. In light of the criticism, Unity List’s Disability Spokesperson, Rosa Lund, plans to summon the Minister for Social Affairs and Housing for an explanation. Minister Sophie Hæstorp Andersen acknowledges the criticism and expresses intent to review and possibly revise the disability policy framework.