Party propose free school meals for all

The Danish political party Danish Social Liberal Party wants to extend free school meals to all children in public schools to ensure that children from underprivileged families have access to a healthy lunch. Martin Lidegaard, the party’s political leader, argues that this can improve learning for socially disadvantaged children and build community with healthy, green food. It also saves half an hour for busy families that can better be spent on family time. Experiences from Sweden and Finland are positive, but Danish insights are needed before nationwide implementation. Initially, Danish Social Liberal Party suggests testing the program in 5-10 municipalities. Full-scale adoption across the country would cost 2 to 3.3 billion kroner yearly, with the funding coming from the economic discretionary funds. Lidegaard emphasizes the need for inclusiveness in the program, even if it means that families cannot personalize their children’s lunchboxes, as the current system reveals social disparities.