Denmark Moves to Grant Citizens Copyright Over Their Own Faces and Voices to Combat AI Deepfakes

Denmark Residents Can Copyright Themselves Against Deepfakes

Denmark is moving towards allowing its citizens to copyright their own face, voice, and body to prevent unauthorized use in AI-generated deepfakes. According to Danish Culture Minister Jakob Engel-Schmidt, proposed legislation will enable residents to request the removal of deepfake content that uses their likeness without consent. Additionally, individuals may seek compensation for damages caused by such fabricated videos or images.

Importantly, this proposal does not restrict content creators producing parodies or satire. Deepfakes are increasingly used to spread misinformation, with high-profile examples including fake videos of Elon Musk, Jeff Bezos, Mark Zuckerberg, and even manipulated images of U.S. President Donald Trump.

Proposal to Amend the Law Begins in Summer 2025

Reports from The Guardian and CNN indicate broad parliamentary support for updating Denmark’s copyright law to address AI-generated deepfakes. Nine out of ten members of parliament back the proposal, with the Culture Minister emphasizing the current legal framework does not adequately protect individuals from fake digital content.

If passed, the law will allow individuals to demand removal of unauthorized deepfake content on social media or websites, with noncompliance leading to legal sanctions including significant fines. This protection extends to creatives and performers, helping them prevent misuse of their work or image in deepfake productions.

The Danish Department of Culture plans to advance the legislative amendment before summer 2025, with discussions expected to resume in the fall of that year.

How Other Countries Are Handling Deepfake Legislation

Across Europe and the UK, several countries have introduced laws addressing AI-generated deepfakes, though none currently offer copyright protections similar to Denmark’s proposal.

• France: Updated laws in May 2024 (the SREN Law) criminalize sharing deepfakes without permission, even if labeled, with penalties including one to three years imprisonment and fines up to 75,000 euros.
• United Kingdom: The Online Safety Act 2023 targets sexual deepfakes specifically, with offenders facing up to two years in prison.
• European Union: The Artificial Intelligence Act, effective August 2024, requires clear labeling and watermarking of AI-generated deepfake content.

Unlike these approaches, Denmark’s proposed law uniquely allows individuals to hold copyright over their own identity elements to combat unauthorized deepfake use.

For legal professionals working with AI and intellectual property, this development in Denmark signals a notable shift in how personal rights and AI-generated content intersect. Staying informed on such legislative changes is essential for advising clients and managing risks related to emerging AI technologies.