Homicide in Denmark 2017-2021: Contemporary patterns and most prevalent types of homicide

• In Event: Homicide in Europe

Abstract

Like Western Europe in general, Denmark has experienced a large decline in the homicide rate from 1,5 annual homicides per 100.000 population in the early 1990s to a low of 0,5 in 2012. However, since then the decline seems to have halted and the composition of homicide in Denmark as regards to homicide types has changed over time. Whereas domestic homicides accounted for 44 pct. of all homicides between 1992 and 2016, the share declined to 36 pct. between 2017 and 2021. Conversely, homicides in the criminal milieu (gangs, organized crime etc.) account for a larger share of the total number of homicides compared to previous periods. Drawing on detailed information on all homicides committed in Denmark between 2017 and 2021, this study examines contemporary homicide patterns in Denmark while comparing the results to other European countries. The study investigates a range of characteristics regarding the homicides, the victims and the perpetrators. Furthermore, additional analyses are conducted regarding the two most common single types of homicide in Denmark: Intimate partner homicides and homicides in the criminal milieu.

Authors

• Signe Bechmann Hansen, The Danish Ministry of Justice

• Mikkel Møller Okholm, The Danish Ministry of Justice