Copenhagen, July 9, 2025
Denmark is set to become the first European country to grant citizens copyright ownership of their face, voice, and physical likeness in response to growing concerns over AI-generated deepfakes. The proposed law, backed by a broad parliamentary majority, is expected to be finalized this autumn and submitted for EU-wide support during Denmark’s upcoming presidency .
Under the new legislation, individuals will have the right to demand removal of deepfake content that uses their likeness without permission and seek compensation from platforms that fail to comply. Culture Minister Jakob Engel‑Schmidt stated this move sends “an unequivocal message” that citizens retain ownership of their identity features .
The law also includes protections for parody and satire, ensuring creative freedoms are preserved even while civilians’ rights are strengthened .
Importantly, the proposal targets not only celebrities but also ordinary individuals who risk being deepfaked for reputational harm or disinformation campaigns. It grants the public legal authority to enforce digital identity rights .
Platforms that fail to remove flagged content could face severe fines or action from the European Commission, with the government highlighting a zero-tolerance stance .
Denmark plans to champion this model across Europe, hoping neighboring countries will adopt similar protections.