The political framework of Denmark

Political Outline

Current Political Leaders

Monarch: King Frederik X (since 14 January 2024)
Prime Minister: Mette Frederiksen (since 27 June 2019) – Social Democrats (Socialdemokratiet)

Next Election Dates

Legislative: October 2026

Main Political Parties

The main political parties in Denmark are:

• Social Democrats (S): centre-left, governing party, follows social-democratic ideology
• Liberal Party (Venstre): centre-right, second largest party in Denmark, market liberal party
• Moderates (M): liberal
• Socialist People’s Party (SF): centre-left, follows popular-socialism inspired by socialism and green politics
• Danish Democrats (DD): right-wing populist
• Liberal Alliance: centre-right
• Conservative People’s Party (KF): centre-right, conservative political party
• Unity List/Red–Green Alliance (EL): far-left, working toward socialist democracy
• Danish People’s Party (DF/DPP): right-wing, populist, prioritizes “protection of the culture of the Danish people”
• Social Liberal Party (R): centre-left, socially liberal.

Executive Power

The Monarch is the head of the state and theoretically holds all executive powers, but in reality the executive powers are exercised by the Prime Minister on behalf of the monarch. In general, the leader of the majority party or coalition is appointed Prime Minister by the monarch. The cabinet, called Council of State, is appointed by the Monarch on Prime Minister's recommendation.

Legislative Power

The legislature is unicameral. The parliament called People's Assembly (or "Folketing") has the ultimate legislative authority; its 179 members are elected by popular vote on the basis of proportional representation to serve four-year terms. On a vote of no confidence motion the parliament may force the entire government to resign.