Denmark proposes new burial rules allowing split ashes and cemetery choice

Denmark proposes new rules for funerals and burials. The proposal gives people greater freedom to choose a cemetery. It also allows dividing a person's ashes between two burial sites. Ecclesiastical affairs minister Ida Auken sent the bill for consultation on Wednesday.

Under current rules, people must have a connection to a parish cemetery. They can choose where they lived, previously lived, or have family. The new proposal removes these parish connection requirements for cemetery selection.

This update comes more than 30 years after the last rule change. About 88 percent of people who die in Denmark are cremated. The Danish Council on Ethics suggested allowing urns at home. However, Auken chose not to include home urns or jewelry in this bill.

The minister wants to make changes step by step. She is also considering rules for scattering ashes in forests and natural areas. Those environmental rules require further approvals before final decisions are made.

(Source: CPH Post)