Non-Confessional RE in Denmark and Rights to Exemption: A Study-of Religions cum Human Rights Perspective

Abstract

Danish elementary school Religious Education (RE) dates back to the beginning of the Danish public schools in 1814 and remained confessional until 1975. In 1937, an option for exemption for teachers and pupils was introduced. However, the non-confessionalisation of the school subject did not indicate that the exemption was removed. At present, pupils (excluding teachers) may still be exempted. In this study, the authors examine the current situation of the subject, the exemption rules, and related human rights aspects. We analyse the contents and aims of RE, the exemption regulations and the related political, public and educational debates on the option for exemption. The analyses and discussions cover a few key non-Danish and Danish articles and discussions from a human rights and an educational perspective of RE and human rights in Europe. The articles are particularly related to the freedom of religion or belief and include discussions on the requirements for RE to be compulsory and thus have no ‘opt-out’ option for pupils and parents.