Skeletons are emerging from the closet in the ruling party, the Moderates (Moderaterne), following revelations of a toxic work environment characterized by bullying and sexism. Several members have previously called for zero tolerance towards sexist environments; however, silence has now become the strategy of the party leadership.
An internal message from party secretary Kirsten Munch Andersen urges both Members of Parliament and the central board not to comment on specific cases and instead direct media inquiries to the party’s press officer. Many members, including Monika Rubin, have chosen to follow this directive, implementing a strategy of silence within the party’s internal communication channels.
Rubin, who last year swiftly distanced herself from former member Jon Stephensen’s inappropriate behavior, has now opted to cancel her participation in the Danish Broadcasting Corporation (DR) program “Vi ses hos Clement” and has yet to provide a statement regarding the current allegations.
The youth wing of the Moderates, known for its prior criticism of Jon Stephensen, has also decided to remain silent. Both Ellen Emilie and Max Manøe Bjerregaard have refrained from responding to media inquiries.
Nonetheless, some members have chosen to speak out. Karin Liltorp has called for an investigation into the situation, stating that the revealed behavior is entirely contrary to the party’s culture. Jeppe Søe expressed his frustration in an internal email to the central board, emphasizing the need for an independent investigation. He believes that the disclosed conditions could damage the party’s reputation.
Party leader and Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen has yet to comment on the matter. Party secretary Kirsten Munch Andersen has previously claimed ignorance of the report filed by the Danish Working Environment Authority (Arbejdstilsynet), noting that she is prepared to initiate measures to improve the workplace if necessary.
After the publication of this article, spokesperson Monika Rubin issued a statement elaborating that she does not wish to communicate the party’s internal affairs through the press and referred inquiries to the party secretary. The situation is evolving, and it is evident that the Moderates are facing major internal challenges.