Danish opposition demands investigation into international adoption practices since 1964

The Danish opposition has united to demand a thorough investigation into all international adoptions to Denmark since 1964. In a joint press release, all eight opposition parties called for the examination to assess whether the Danish government has been responsible for adoption scandals involving children brought to Denmark against their biological parents’ wishes.

Last autumn, the Danish Parliament allocated funds for a study scheduled to begin in 2025. However, this investigation is described as having a “historical character” and will not assign blame. Consequently, the opposition has banded together to push for an expanded inquiry encompassing responsibility from Danish authorities and adoption agencies. They contend that a mere historical review is insufficient; the adopted individuals and their families deserve full transparency.

Since January, reports have surfaced about 13 cases where Indian children were deceived and adopted by families in Denmark, all from the same orphanage in Southern India between 1978 and 1982. Experts deem these cases as just the “tip of the iceberg,” with unethical adoptions from countries like South Korea, Ethiopia, and Madagascar being reported over the decades.

The controversy surrounding the Indian orphanage has been brought to light in the new season of a documentary series titled “The Great Adoption Theft.” Prominent politicians have emphasized the importance of legal accountability, with some arguing that the investigation must extend to present times and include all relevant countries, addressing issues of human trafficking and potential violations of human rights.

An official investigation is set to allocate 12.6 million kroner from 2025 to 2027, but its specific mandate has yet to be determined. The calls for a comprehensive inquiry continue to grow as outrage over the situation unfolds.