Denmark News Roundup: Insights from Today's Headlines on Monday
Nordic Ex-ministers Urge European Leaders to Act on Gaza
A collective of thirteen former Nordic foreign and defense ministers issued a joint letter to European leaders over the weekend, urging immediate action to halt war crimes and prevent a humanitarian disaster in the Gaza Strip. The appeal comes as Israel continues its military offensive in the area, with minimal medical aid and food allowed to enter since early March.
The crisis in Gaza has left a devastating impact on its residents, with over 50,000 Palestinians killed, mostly non-combatants, including women, children, journalists, and humanitarian workers, the joint letter states.
Read the full letter here.
Council of Europe Upholds European Convention on Human Rights
In response to calls from Denmark and eight other EU states for a reconsideration of the European Convention on Human Rights, particularly on migration matters, the Council of Europe urged governments not to undermine the treaty's strength and significance.
Alain Berset, Secretary General of the 46-member Council of Europe, emphasized that the convention's purpose is to remain strong and relevant as they face current challenges. The European Court of Human Rights (ECHR), the body responsible for enforcing the convention, continues to play a crucial role in safeguarding fundamental rights across member states.
The nine countries that called for a reevaluation of the convention also include Italy and Poland. They sought a "new and open-minded conversation about the interpretation of the European Convention on Human Rights."
Berset described the need for debate as healthy, but urged against weaponizing institutions like the ECHR for political purposes. He noted that institutions advocating for fundamental rights must remain unyielding to political shifts to maintain stability and avoid jeopardizing the enforcement of human rights.
Teaching Children to Say No to Tobacco and Nicotine
The Danish Health Authority has introduced new educational materials to teach children aged 10 to 13 (5th to 7th grade) about the dangers of tobacco and nicotine products. These lessons will provide children with tools to resist peer pressure and decline if offered tobacco or nicotine products.
The newly developed materials will also inform students about the effects of tobacco and nicotine use and the concept of addiction. Jonas Egebart, Director of the Danish Health Authority, underscored the importance of educating younger generations about the risks associated with smoking.
According to a 2024 study by the National Institute of Public Health at the University of Southern Denmark, the number of children and young people using tobacco and nicotine products is on the rise, with approximately 29.2 percent of 15- to 17-year-olds reporting use in 2024, up from 19.5 percent in 2020.
Older Danes Worry About Climate Change
The latest data indicates that there is a growing concern among older Danes about the potential impacts of climate change during their lifetimes.
In 2025, a survey showed that around 50 percent of individuals aged 60 and above were either somewhat or very concerned about climate change, up from 28 percent in 2022.
According to Sofus Rex, Director of climate partnership Gate 21, there is a willingness across generations to participate in efforts to ensure a green transition. Despite the increased concern among older generations, age remains a significant determining factor in shaping attitudes toward climate change, with 77 percent of 18- to 29-year-olds showing concern, according to the report.
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[Image caption if applicable, e.g., "Former Danish Prime Minister Helle Thorning-Schmidt is among the ex-ministers calling for action in Gaza."]
News: The Danish Health Authority has developed educational materials to teach children about the dangers of tobacco and nicotine, following reports of an increase in youth tobacco use.Space and Politics: In response to calls from various EU countries, the Council of Europe has urged governments not to weaken the European Convention on Human Rights, particularly on migration matters.Art and General News: There is a growing concern among older Danes about the potential impacts of climate change during their lifetimes, with a survey showing a rise in concern levels from 28% in 2022 to 50% in 2025.
