Bubble Bursts For Danish Pornography (Press, 19 August 1989)

Two decades after Copenhagen became known as the sex capital of Europe, the local pornography industry is experiencing a significant decline. This notable shift comes in the wake of Denmark's 1969 parliamentary decision to lift restrictions on adult films and explicit magazines. The 20th anniversary of this decision has passed largely unnoticed, reflecting a broader change in public sentiment. Initially, the removal of these restrictions ushered in an era of sexual liberalism that attracted international attention and tourism, even drawing the disapproval of the Vatican. In the first year alone, Denmark saw the sale of three million pornographic books in a population of just five million. The once-bustling sex shops and adult cinemas that proliferated throughout Copenhagen are now largely forced into obscurity, with many relocating to less visible areas, particularly the Istedgade red-light district. Currently, only one X-rated cinema remains in the city, overshadowed by the existence of over 100 conventional cinemas. A local shop owner noted a shift in consumer behaviour; while still catering to a few foreign customers who are willing to pay a premium, locals have become more reserved in their purchasing habits, opting for private video viewings rather than public escapades. Although some experts like psychologist Berl Kutchinsky maintain that the legalisation of pornography is a necessary rebellion against conservative sexual morals, the mood has shifted. Public complaints have risen, especially regarding adult performances that cross ethical lines, leading to stricter regulations that target these exploitative shows. Inspector Tove Nielsen has highlighted concerning links between violent pornography and real-life crime, noting that rapists have begun to mimic the explicit material they consume. Her calls for action reflect a growing awareness of potential societal harms associated with the industry. In contrast, most politicians have chosen to remain neutral, fearing that any resurgence of prohibition would merely push the industry underground. Knud Thestrup, who served as Justice Minister during the initial law change, predicted a decline in the demand for such entertainment, which has proven prescient. The cultural landscape of Copenhagen has shifted, with visitors occasionally inquiring about the once-vibrant sex shops in Stroeget only to find they have been replaced by more conventional establishments. The tourism industry's curious requests now more frequently lead to suggestions of Amsterdam as a substitute destination for adult entertainment. The story depicts a decline of an era, capturing the shift from acceptance to reticence regarding the pornography industry in Denmark. The liberal attitudes of the late 1960s have shifted, as both the public and authorities navigate the complexities of freedom and responsibility in the realm of sexual expression.

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