Denmark is considering a nationwide ban on the Islamic call to prayer, known as the Adhan, with Business Minister Morten Bodskov arguing that the practice has no place in the country’s public spaces.
Speaking to news agency Ritzau, Bodskov said the government would reopen an investigation into whether the call to prayer can be legally prohibited across Denmark. He warned against what he described as growing “Islamisation” and said Danes should not feel as though they are “in a suburb of Islamabad” while walking through Danish communities.
“The call to prayer should not be heard over Danish rooftops. It has no place in Denmark,” Bodskov said.
The proposal marks the third attempt by Danish authorities to introduce such a ban, following unsuccessful efforts in 2020 and 2025.
Parts of Denmark already restrict the practice. Copenhagen’s noise regulations effectively prevent amplified calls from mosques, while the Grand Mosque of Copenhagen voluntarily refrains from broadcasting outdoor calls under a local agreement.
Government officials will now assess whether a nationwide ban can be implemented without violating constitutional protections for religious freedom. Denmark’s constitution guarantees public worship, although existing laws already restrict anti-democratic preaching and support for prohibited groups.
