The Danish Vegetarian Association (Dansk Vegetarisk Forening) has publicly criticized a recent series of vegan activist demonstrations on the Copenhagen island of Amager, describing them as “completely unreasonable” and counterproductive to the broader cause of promoting plant-based food systems.
In recent weeks, as we reported on NordiskPost, a group calling itself “Amager imod slagtere” (Amager against butchers) has staged several demonstrations outside butcher shops in the area, aiming to shut down all meat vendors on the island. Among the targets was Slagterens Smørrebrød & Delikatesse, which has reportedly been subjected to vandalism six times in the past year, prompting the business to take out an annual graffiti insurance policy worth DKK 14,400 (approx. €1,930).
Vegetarian association urges constructive dialogue over confrontation
While the Danish Vegetarian Association (DVF) shares the broader goal of reducing meat consumption, it firmly rejects the confrontational methods used by the Amager activists. Rune-Christoffer Dragsdahl, DVF’s Secretary General, emphasized the importance of systemic solutions and collaborative efforts:
“It’s completely wrong to go after individual butcher shops on Amager. This is a systemic problem that we need to solve together as a society.”
Dragsdahl argued that aggressive tactics risk alienating the public and may provoke backlash, citing Engel-Schmidt’s reaction as a prime example. He stressed that a majority of Danes are already open to eating less meat and that positive messaging and practical support are more effective strategies.
A clash of strategies in the fight for animal rights
In response, Maria from Amager imod slagtere defended their methods, insisting that multiple strategies are necessary to drive real change:
“The work DVF does is important, but it hasn’t led to a vegan world where animals aren’t caged and killed. We believe in using a variety of tactics, including civil disobedience and direct action.”
Maria pointed to historic social justice movements, such as women’s suffrage, to justify their use of disruption and radical activism.
Public confusion and media responsibility
Dragsdahl noted that DVF often gets mistaken for more radical groups, which could damage the broader movement for plant-based living. He called on the media to balance coverage of protests with stories about constructive initiatives, such as DVF’s work with festivals, hospitals, and sports clubs to introduce more green options.
“Vegan food shouldn’t be associated with vandalism. We’re promoting a peaceful and inspiring approach.”
Bridging divides within the movement
The escalating tension between moderate organizations and radical activists reflects deeper debates within the global movement for food system transformation. While both sides share a commitment to reducing animal suffering, their methods and philosophies differ sharply.
For DVF, the path forward lies in bridge-building and cooperation. For Amager imod slagtere, it is about urgency and systemic disruption.
As the debate continues, the challenge remains: how to align diverse strategies without losing sight of a common goal.
