In Denmark, did you know that all Danish parents can only choose names for their children from a government-approved list of 3000 names for boys and 4000 names for girls?
In this country, which embraces regulations with as much fervor as Italy tends to resist them, naming a child, both first and last, is a serious affair governed by law and requiring approval from the Ministry of Ecclesiastical Affairs and the Ministry of Family and Consumer Affairs.
The Law on Personal Names aims primarily to safeguard the youth of Denmark—children who are, some might argue, unfairly and unkindly saddled with foolish or absurd names. The government believes that no child should endure mockery or mistreatment due to their parents’ poor judgment or misguided attempts to be trendy. Much like other regions of Scandinavia, Denmark values uniformity over individuality, prioritizing practicality over triviality.
Although similar laws exist in other Scandinavian nations and in places like France, none are as stringent as Denmark’s. The Danish Ministry of Justice is even considering easing the law to better align it with contemporary Denmark, where common-law marriage is recognized, immigration is on the rise, and divorce has become commonplace.
“The historical perspective of the government carries a sense of responsibility towards its vulnerable citizens,” explained Rasmus Larsen, chief adviser at the Ministry for Ecclesiastical Affairs, during a discussion about the law. “It aims to prevent individuals from finding themselves in situations where they cannot protect themselves, much like how we ensure seat belt usage in traffic.”
Parents expecting a child can select from a government-approved list containing 7,000 primarily West European and English names: 3,000 for boys and 4,000 for girls. Recently, a few ethnic names, such as Ali and Hassan, have also been added.
However, those who aspire to choose a name not on the official list must obtain permission from their local parish church, where every newborn’s name is recorded. The request for an unapproved name initiates a review process at Copenhagen University’s Names Investigation Department and the Ministry of Ecclesiastical Affairs, which holds the ultimate decision-making power. This legal regulation is applicable only if at least one parent is Danish.
Many parents remain unaware of the challenges they may face in getting a name government-approved. Each year, approximately 1,100 names are reviewed, and around 15 percent to 20 percent are denied, often due to unconventional spellings.
by Lorelle Heath
