Copenhagen’s Venstre party calls for halt to new admissions at Ørestad Gymnasium over bullying concerns

The Venstre party in Copenhagen has proposed a one-year freeze on new student admissions at Ørestad Gymnasium, citing severe issues with bullying and negative social control, DR reports. The move follows revelations of systemic problems at the school, including harassment over clothing, alcohol, smoking, and sexual orientation, as well as ethnic divisions among students.

Jens-Kristian Lütken, Venstre’s health and care mayor in Copenhagen, argued that the school requires a “fresh start” due to what he described as a “massive problem” tied to its culture. “Many choose this school because of its high proportion of students with immigrant backgrounds,” he said, proposing that current classes complete their studies before the school temporarily closes to reorganise.

The proposal has drawn criticism from Maja Bødtcher-Hansen, chair of Danske Gymnasier (Danish Gymnasium Association) and principal of Frederiksberg Gymnasium. She called the plan “the wrong approach,” stating it fails to address root causes. Instead, she advocated for a student redistribution agreement to promote integration across schools. Under current rules, admission policies fall under the national Ministry of Children and Education, not municipal authority.

Ørestad Gymnasium’s principal, Inge Voller, declined an interview but expressed support for Danske Gymnasier’s redistribution proposal. The school currently enrolls 873 students, according to ministry data.

The debate follows a Berlingske investigation revealing documented cases of negative social control at three Copenhagen-area schools, including Ørestad Gymnasium, where students reported pressure over religious dress codes and online harassment.