While the law will target unauthorized digital imitations, it will still allow for parodies and satire, ensuring these forms of expression remain unaffected.

Denmark's approach aligns with global efforts to regulate deepfakes, similar to the U.S. 'Take It Down Act' and South Korea's stringent penalties for deepfake creation.

Denmark is set to introduce groundbreaking legislation that allows citizens to copyright their own voice, face, and body, aiming to combat the misuse of AI deepfakes.

This initiative, which is the first of its kind in Europe, has garnered broad cross-party support and is expected to be proposed for consultation before the summer recess.

Danish Culture Minister Jakob Engel-Schmidt has warned that tech platforms will face severe fines for non-compliance with the new regulations, expressing hope that other European nations will follow suit.

The legislation follows a prior agreement among nine political parties to restrict deepfake usage in campaign messaging, highlighting the urgency of protecting democratic institutions from misinformation.

Engel-Schmidt emphasized that the law signifies a shift from privacy to intellectual property, affirming individuals' rights over their own likenesses and ensuring they have control over how they appear and sound.

Under the proposed changes, individuals will have the right to request the removal of deepfake content from online platforms if it is shared without their consent, including realistic imitations of artists' performances.

The new legislation will require platforms to enhance content monitoring and transparency, potentially leading to new AI-detection tools and altering employment contracts in the media and entertainment sectors.

The Danish government plans to conduct public consultations over the summer of 2025, with parliamentary debate expected in the autumn, and the measure is anticipated to pass easily due to widespread political support.

Recent high-profile cases of deepfake misuse involving celebrities have underscored the urgent need for protective legislation against such technology.

Denmark hopes that this initiative will inspire other European countries to adopt similar measures to combat the challenges posed by AI.