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This guide explains how sexual harassment is treated under Danish law and what someone in Ringe, Denmark should know when seeking legal advice. Sexual harassment can occur in many settings - at work, in education, in public spaces or in private relationships. In Denmark, unwanted sexual behaviour may be addressed through criminal law, employment and equal treatment rules, and civil claims for compensation. Local authorities in Ringe follow the same national laws and procedures that apply across Denmark, while some practical services such as police, hospitals and municipal support are provided by local or regional bodies.
A lawyer can help you understand your rights, evaluate options and take formal steps. Common situations where legal help is useful include:
- You are a victim of an assault or persistent sexual harassment and want to report it to the police or need help through the criminal justice process.
- Your harassment involves your workplace and the employer fails to act, or you face retaliation after complaining.
- You want to pursue a civil claim for damages, such as for emotional distress, loss of earnings or other harm.
- You need help gathering and preserving evidence, preparing witness statements or responding to investigations.
- You need advice on interim protective measures, such as orders that limit contact, or on safety planning for you and your family.
- You require representation at hearings, workplace meetings, or before administrative bodies such as the Danish Working Environment Authority or an equal treatment complaints board.
The following legal frameworks are most relevant in cases of sexual harassment in Ringe:
- Criminal law: The Danish Penal Code addresses a range of sexual offences. Depending on the facts, behaviour may be prosecuted as sexual harassment, sexual assault or a more serious sexual crime. Criminal charges are pursued by the public prosecutor after a police report.
- Employment and work environment laws: The Danish Working Environment Act obliges employers to prevent and address harassment and to ensure a safe working environment. If an employer does not act, employees can complain to their union or to the Danish Working Environment Authority.
- Equal treatment and discrimination law: National laws prohibit sexual harassment and sex-based discrimination in employment and education. Complaints about discrimination and related harassment can be brought to the relevant authority or complaints board.
- Civil law: Victims can pursue compensation claims against the perpetrator and, in some cases, against employers or institutions that failed in their duties. Evidence and case circumstances will determine the strength of a civil claim.
- Victim compensation and support: Victim compensation schemes and counselling services are available. Criminal injuries compensation schemes may provide financial relief even if the perpetrator cannot be made to pay directly.
Procedures are generally the same in Ringe as elsewhere in Denmark. Reporting to the police starts a criminal investigation. Employers must investigate internal reports and act to stop harassment. Administrative complaints can be made to national authorities that handle employment and discrimination matters.
Sexual harassment covers unwelcome sexual remarks, comments, gestures, physical contact or behaviour that creates an offensive or hostile environment. The same conduct may also form part of a criminal offence if it is sexual assault or another defined sexual crime. Context, frequency and impact are important in determining whether behaviour is harassment under employment law or a criminal offence.
You can report sexual harassment to your employer or workplace safety representative, to the police, or to a relevant administrative authority such as the Danish Working Environment Authority or an equal treatment complaints board. For immediate danger or assault, contact emergency services. Make a written record of what happened, when and who witnessed it, and preserve any evidence.
The police investigate reports, collect evidence and forward cases to the public prosecutor, who decides whether to press charges. Not all reports lead to prosecution. A lawyer can help present evidence and explain the prosecutor process, and victim support services can help you through the investigation.
Report the incident to your manager, HR or your workplace safety representative. Follow any internal complaint procedures. Keep records of incidents, including dates, times, messages and witnesses. If your employer does not act, consider contacting your union or the Danish Working Environment Authority for further action. If the harassment involves criminal behaviour, you may also report it to the police.
Yes, you may be able to claim compensation for harm suffered because of harassment, such as emotional distress, medical expenses or loss of earnings. Success depends on the evidence and the legal basis for the claim. A lawyer can assess prospects, advise on the likely compensation, and help collect evidence and draft a claim.
You do not always need a lawyer to speak with police, but legal advice can be very helpful. A lawyer can explain your rights, help prepare you for questioning, ensure interviews are conducted properly, and help protect your interests during the criminal process.
Anonymous reporting can be possible in some contexts, but anonymity may limit the ability of authorities to investigate. In workplaces, employers are generally required to investigate formal complaints, which often requires identifying the parties involved. If you are concerned about confidentiality or retaliation, discuss this with a lawyer, a union representative or a victim support service before filing a formal complaint.
Retaliation for reporting harassment is prohibited and may give rise to additional legal claims. Keep documentation of any retaliatory actions, raise concerns with HR or a union, and consider asking a lawyer to send a formal letter asserting your rights. Administrative complaints can also be filed with relevant authorities if the employer fails to protect you.
Different processes have different time frames. Criminal statutes of limitation vary by offence and severity. Civil claims also have limitation periods. Administrative complaints to authorities may have their own deadlines. Because time limits can affect your options, seek legal advice promptly to preserve your rights and collect evidence.
Legal aid schemes such as free legal counsel in Denmark may be available depending on your financial situation and the nature of the case. Many unions provide legal support to members. Victim support organisations and counselling services often provide free practical and emotional support. Ask about options when you contact a lawyer or local support service.
Below are types of services and bodies that can help if you have experienced sexual harassment in Ringe:
- Local police and emergency services - for reporting crimes and getting immediate protection.
- Danish Working Environment Authority - handles workplace safety and employer obligations regarding harassment.
- Equal treatment and discrimination authorities or complaints boards - for issues of sex-based discrimination in employment and education.
- Victim support and counselling services - for emotional support, guidance and practical help after an incident.
- Regional hospital sexual assault centres - hospitals in the Region of Southern Denmark provide medical care and forensic examinations following sexual assault.
- Your union or safety representative - unions often provide legal help, advice and representation in workplace disputes.
- Danish Institute for Human Rights - for information about rights and non-discrimination standards.
- Victim compensation authorities - agencies that assess claims for state compensation after violent crimes.
- Faaborg-Midtfyn Municipality social services - local social and health services can assist with support and local referrals.
If you need legal assistance for sexual harassment in Ringe, use the following practical steps:
- Ensure immediate safety. If you are in danger, call emergency services right away.
- Preserve evidence. Save messages, emails and photos. Write a detailed account of incidents while memories are fresh. Note witnesses and dates.
- Seek medical and psychological support. Even if you do not plan to report immediately, medical care documents injuries and helps your wellbeing.
- Report to the appropriate body. This may be your employer, the police or an administrative authority depending on the situation. If unsure, consult a lawyer or a victim support service for advice about where to start.
- Contact your union or a lawyer experienced in sexual harassment, employment law and criminal matters. A lawyer can explain your options, represent you in investigations or court, and help pursue compensation or remedies.
- Ask about legal aid and support services. If finances are a concern, check whether you qualify for public legal assistance or union support.
- Keep records of all steps you take and any responses you receive. This helps build your case and protects your rights.
Facing sexual harassment can be stressful and complex. Seeking advice early from a qualified lawyer and local support organisations will give you practical options and protect your rights under Danish law.
