The Secretary of the Moderates (Moderaterne), Kirsten Munch Andersen, has addressed concerns regarding the workplace environment within the party following allegations of bullying and sexism that surfaced in the media. In an interview with TV 2, she stated that all reports regarding the workplace environment have been taken seriously and handled in accordance with the party’s guidelines. However, she does not recognize the description of a negative workplace environment as presented by the B.T. (a Danish tabloid).
The B.T. article reveals that several current and former party members have reported issues to the Danish Working Environment Authority (Arbejdstilsynet) on August 15. The report includes the names of several prominent figures in the party, including Kirsten Munch Andersen herself, Communications Director Ulla Østergaard, and Digitalization Minister Caroline Stage Olsen. Despite the serious allegations, Kirsten Munch Andersen denies any violations of the party’s Code of Conduct and emphasizes the importance of a safe work environment.
The report further mentions apparent inaction from the leadership, including claims of neglect regarding reports of the issues. Kirsten Munch Andersen has scheduled a meeting with the party’s employee committee to address the situation and plans to reach out to the Working Environment Authority for advice and guidance. This could potentially involve a visit from the authority if deemed necessary.
The Moderates have not yet commented on the report or the negative media coverage, other than denying knowledge of the mentioned report, according to a written statement to B.T. Communication from the rest of the party’s leadership has been limited. Ulla Østergaard has declined to answer questions, and Caroline Stage Olsen has referred to the party’s official statements.
In a general comment, the Working Environment Authority indicated that they evaluate complaints upon receipt and can initiate inspection visits if an immediate danger is identified. It will now depend on the authority’s assessment whether the next steps in the case will involve a visit to the Moderates.