Denmark Also Bans Spanking Of Children

By the slimmest of margins, Denmark joined its Nordic neighbors Wednesday in prohibiting parents from spanking their children or using other kinds of corporal punishment.

After a heated debate in Parliament, the bill squeaked by in a 51-50 vote.

Opponents contend the measure is too intrusive. Tove Fergo of the Liberal Party said the law will “criminalize parents using normal methods to raise their children.”

There was no immediate word on when the law will take effect or what the penalties will be for violators.

Sweden, Norway and Finland also have banned spanking.