Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen has recently shared a series of alarming messages on her Instagram profile that she has received from the public. These messages, ranging from severe insults to direct threats, have raised concerns for the prime minister, who is now calling for a broader discussion about the tone on social media. In an Instagram post, where Frederiksen has attached images of some of the received comments, she expresses her deep concern about the harsh tone that characterizes online dialogue. “Harassment, sexism, insults, hatred, and threats. Unfortunately, it is part of everyday life for many – including us,” she writes in the post.
Frederiksen refers to experiences from other public figures, including participants in ‘X Factor’ and journalists, who have also received hateful messages and threats. She emphasizes that while a certain degree of criticism and intense debate can be part of life as a public figure, there are limits to what should be accepted. “As prime minister, one must of course have a high tolerance. It is a condition when one’s decisions affect the daily lives of many. But there are words and comments that are so extreme that no one should have to endure it,” she adds.
Frederiksen encourages more people to share the hateful messages they receive to raise awareness of the problem and promote a more respectful manner of communication. “A democracy thrives on conversation. On being able to discuss with each other, present our arguments, listen – even to those we disagree with. And hopefully become wiser,” she says.
She also expresses concern that the negative tone may deter people from participating in the democratic conversation, which can be harmful to society. The prime minister hopes that everyone will make an effort to improve communication and thereby strengthen democracy.