According to BT, Inger Støjberg, leader of the Denmark Democrats (a right-wing blue party), sparked widespread controversy after attacking IKEA over the launch of a special collection for the month of Ramadan.
Launch of Ramadan collection sparks debate
Swedish company IKEA launched a new collection to mark the month of Ramadan, which this year falls during February and March, prompting Inger Støjberg, as leader of the Danish Democrats party, to direct sharp criticism at the company.
A widely circulated video on social media
In a video that went viral on social media and garnered hundreds of thousands of views, Inger Støjberg announced that IKEA now has what she called a "Ramadan collection." She added that she is aware IKEA is a Swedish company, but emphasized that everyone here lives in Denmark, where Christian holidays are celebrated. She asserted that, in her opinion, Ramadan collections belong in the Middle East.
GOKVÄLLA Collection Details
The video featured IKEA's new collection called GOKVÄLLA, which means "good evening." IKEA explained on its website that this year's GOKVÄLLA collection includes a wide range of festive decorations, decorative cushions, textiles, copper tableware, as well as string lights and lanterns that create a warm Ramadan atmosphere.
A clear rejection of the idea of the group being based in Denmark
Inger Støjberg felt that this group did not belong in the Danish context. When asked why she objected to what a private company was selling, and whether it should be allowed to market its products freely, she replied that it was a matter of what she described as the ongoing deference to specific Islamic considerations.
Criticism of what she described as the marginalization of Danish traditions
Inger Støjberg stated that Denmark is not Damascus, indicating her rejection of what she considers cultural compromises. She added that the trend of major companies downplaying Danish and Christian traditions to accommodate religious minorities reflects a development that must be openly discussed. She emphasized that her point was not about imposing a ban, but rather about the need to prevent the erosion of Danish traditions for fear of controversy.
IKEA responds to Stöberg's statements
BT presented Inger Støjberg's comments to IKEA's Danish press office. The company confirmed in a written statement that Støjberg has the right to express her opinion, just as those who disagree with her have the same right. IKEA pointed out that the naming of its collections and products has always attracted public attention, and this is not the first time this has happened.
IKEA explains its policy towards seasons and holidays
IKEA explained that it generally seeks to be the destination for customers when preparing for new seasons and the accompanying celebrations, whether it be Easter, Halloween or Christmas, which the company described as a big and important occasion in Denmark.
Examples of previous event-specific collections
IKEA reminded everyone that during last Christmas season it launched the VINTERFINT collection which included ornamental balls, Santa Claus figures and gift wrapping paper, and it also decorated its stores and offered special foods for the occasion.
Widespread interest in the Ramadan collection
IKEA also reported that it is already seeing significant interest in its new Ramadan collection. The company confirmed that it has received positive feedback from customers celebrating Ramadan, as well as from other customers who see these products as beautiful pieces that can be used for various occasions, not just during the holy month.
-
-
-
-
