Lizette Risgaard calls previous apology a mistake in new book released in Denmark

Lizette Risgaard has described her previous apology related to harassment allegations against her in 2023 as a mistake. This revelation comes from her new book, “My Version,” published today. The allegations led to her resignation from the position of chairperson of the Trade Union Confederation (FH).

Risgaard characterized the situation as a “terrible ordeal” and believes it is essential to provide more context about her experience, stating, “There wasn’t much calm to listen to what I said.” She expressed her desire to share her perspective in her book.

In her April 2023 Facebook post, Risgaard admitted to exhibiting inappropriate behavior, noting she acted unprofessionally as a leader and did not fully grasp the power dynamics of her position. She stated that the person who feels harassed has the right to define boundaries and conveyed her apologies based on this principle, which emerged from a 2022 tripartite agreement on MeToo.

An investigation by the law firm Kromann Reumert reviewed 25 incidents, concluding that physical contact was substantiated in five cases, with three being classified as unwanted and having sexual undertones. The temporary chair of FH at the time deemed Risgaard’s conduct inappropriate.

Risgaard expressed regret over the substantiated cases but maintains she never intended to touch anyone inappropriately. She emphasized that the Occupational Safety and Health Administration was not involved in the investigation and that media queries about the incidents were unfounded.

In her book, she addresses a case where a subordinate felt harassed but also asserts that reactions to such situations vary and that the power imbalance must be recognized. Despite acknowledging her powerful position, she insists she has never exploited it unethically and calls for a review of how similar cases are handled when not involving official oversight.