‘We Owe It to Our Children to Use All Means to Prevent Future Abuse’: The Political Rationale and Arguments Behind Denmark’s First ‘Sex Offender Law’

Abstract In 2020, Denmark introduced its first ‘Sex Offender Law’ to protect children by monitoring convicted offenders and restricting their liberty. The law sparked controversy due to Denmark’s strong tradition of upholding the rule of law. This article explores the political rationale and arguments behind its adoption. Through a content analysis of 161 documents, including political texts and legislative debates, it reveals that the law relies more on lawmakers’ assumptions than on evidence. It also shows how lawmakers sidestep fundamental rights by framing the law as preventive, using storytelling and ‘playing’ with legal concepts. The article emphasizes the need for a balance between protecting children and safeguarding fundamental rights to preserve Denmark’s reputation as a nation governed by the rule of law.