Denmark plans ankle monitors for non-convicted radicals

Denmark's government is moving forward with a controversial law that could place electronic ankle monitors on individuals deemed particularly dangerous and radicalized, even if they have no criminal record. Justice Minister Nicolai Wammen confirmed the plan, stating it's part of the new government's agenda to implement necessary legislation based on recommendations from the Danish Security and Intelligence Service (PET).

The proposal aims to establish control measures for individuals convicted of terrorism or identified as radicalized. However, it has drawn significant criticism from legal bodies, including the think tank Justitia, the Bar Association, and the Association of Judges. A key point of contention is the potential application of these measures to individuals over 15 years old who have not been convicted of any crime, provided PET assesses them as particularly dangerous and a threat.

Think tank Justitia warns that individuals could face intrusive measures without being convicted, charged, or even suspected in a specific criminal case. The Association of Defense Lawyers emphasizes the fundamental principle of a rule of law: everyone is presumed innocent until proven guilty. The Bar Council has labeled the lack of a clear definition for "radicalization" as "highly controversial."

If enacted, the measures could include restrictions on movement, contact bans, electronic surveillance via GPS ankle monitors, internet access controls, limitations on mobile phone use, and mandatory psychological or psychiatric treatment. PET estimates that 10 to 15 individuals annually would fall under the scope of this proposed legislation.