Feb 18 • 09:37 UTC 🇩🇰 Denmark Politiken

New bill: The Defense must be able to expropriate 'anyone' in the event of war

A new defense bill in Denmark proposes allowing the military to expropriate properties from various entities, not just citizens, during wartime.

In Denmark, a new legislative proposal by Defense Minister Troels Lund Poulsen seeks to expand the military's authority to expropriate properties in times of war. Currently, the law permits the military to take over private citizens' properties for full compensation during wartime, but it does not extend this power to businesses, organizations, or public entities. The proposal aims to alter this, allowing the Defense to legally expropriate from 'anyone', thereby addressing potential logistical needs during a national emergency.

The rationale for this change, as outlined in the bill, is based on the recognition that certain properties owned by organizations, such as schools, sports halls, and warehouses, may be crucial for the military's operational capacity. In scenarios that require the swift movement of personnel and equipment to strategically significant areas, having access to these facilities can be critical. Furthermore, essential transport hubs like ports and airports could also come under military control if deemed necessary for national security.

This legislative move reflects a significant shift in the approach towards national defense infrastructure in Denmark, indicating a proactive stance in preparing for potential crises. The implications may spark debates around property rights, governmental authority, and the ethical considerations of such expropriations during emergencies, suggesting a complex intersection of security and civil rights within the context of modern warfare.

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