Denmark drafted a bill to criminalize violation of sanctions to implement the directive

The Danish government takes very seriously individuals and Danish companies that violate and circumvent EU sanctions against, for example, russia, for example, by exporting products that could aid the russian army. That is why the government has put forward a bill for discussion that, among other things, establishes new, more severe penalties for violating EU sanctions.

"It is absolutely unacceptable that Danish companies decide to violate EU sanctions against, for example, russia and Belarus for the sake of making additional profits. The Danish government wants to put an end to this. That is why we are now proposing a bill that significantly increases the penalties for violating EU sanctions - and with this bill we actually go much further than the EU minimum rules in this area. Denmark must send a clear signal that we support the effective implementation of EU sanctions,” said Justice Minister Peter Hummelgaard.

“Sanctions play a crucial role in our foreign and security policy. For example, we are using sanctions to hit russia's economy and minimize their capabilities after their illegal invasion of Ukraine. If someone circumvents sanctions, it has direct consequences for our security. Therefore, the government proposes to increase the penalties for violating sanctions,” said Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen.

In particular, the draft law envisages stricter penalties for violating sanctions in the Criminal Code. Among other things, the penalty will be increased from arrest for up to 4 months to imprisonment for up to 5 years, and in case of aggravated crimes - from imprisonment for up to 4 years to imprisonment for up to 8 years.

In addition, the draft law stipulates that violation of the EU arms embargo sanctions will be punishable by imprisonment for up to 5 years or, in aggravated circumstances, up to 8 years.

Among other things, the draft law establishes rules that correspond to parts of EU Directive 2024/1226 on what should be considered criminal offenses and sanctions for violations of EU sanctions. The Directive is subject to a Danish opt-out.

Source: Danish Ministry of Justice