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Capital: Copenhagen
Official EU language(s): Danish
EU member country: since 1 January 1973
Currency: Danish krone DKK. Denmark has negotiated an exemption from adopting the euro and is therefore not obliged to introduce it.
Schengen: Denmark has been a member of the Schengen area since 25 March 2001.
Figures: Geographical size – population – gross domestic product (GDP) per capita in PPS
Denmark operates under a constitutional monarchy with a representative parliamentary system. The head of government, known as the prime minister, and the head of state, the monarch, together oversee the executive functions. The monarch’s role is primarily ceremonial and symbolic. Additionally, the kingdom includes two autonomous constituent countries in the Atlantic, namely the Faroe Islands and Greenland, which are not EU members.
In 2020, Denmark’s economy was primarily driven by public administration, defense, education, human health, and social work activities (21.5%), wholesale and retail trade, transport, accommodation, and food services (19.3%), and industry (18.2%).
Internally, 52% of Denmark’s exports are traded within the EU, with Germany (14%) and Sweden (9%) being the main destinations. Outside the EU, 11% of exports are directed to the United States and 6% to Norway.
Regarding imports, 69% originate from EU Member States, with Germany (22%), Sweden (13%), and the Netherlands (9%) being the primary sources. Outside the EU, 8% come from China and 4% from Norway.
Denmark is represented by 14 members in the European Parliament.
Representatives from the Danish government participate in the Council of the EU to adopt EU laws and coordinate policies.
Denmark has held the Presidency of the Council of the EU during the following periods: Jul-Dec 1973, Jan-Jun 1978, Jul-Dec 1982, Jul-Dec 1987, Jan-Jun 1993, Jul-Dec 2002, and Jan-Jun 2012.
Margrethe Vestager serves as the Commissioner nominated by Denmark to the European Commission, holding the position of Executive Vice-President for A Europe fit for the Digital Age. The Commission maintains representation in Denmark.
Denmark is represented by 9 delegates on the European Economic and Social Committee, providing consultation on proposed laws affecting work and social situations.
Denmark has 9 representatives on the European Committee of the Regions, ensuring regional perspectives are considered in proposed laws.
Denmark communicates with EU institutions through its permanent representation based in Brussels, ensuring effective pursuit of the country’s interests and policies in the EU.
Denmark contributes to the EU budget based on its means to support programs and projects across all EU countries.
EU spending & revenue by year and by country
The money paid into the EU budget by Denmark supports programs and projects in all EU countries, including building roads, subsidizing researchers, and protecting the environment.
