I have been planning on writing about Danish Politics for quite some time now, but have never worked up the energy to do so. Some of my friends have taken the Danish Politics class, and so are probably much more qualified to analyze it in-depth than I am. However, I will share some of my impressions and opinions, from a slightly different perspective, I hope.
It is often difficult for many Americans to discuss non-American politics. They have to step away from the categorical concepts we use for American politics, as politics are organized differently here. The most obvious of these is the infamous liberal-conservative pairing. In America, these are seen as polar opposites on a political spectrum, within which all politicians must categorize themselves. However, these distinctions do not exist as clearly in Danish Politics, or even European Politics in general.
In fact, as my title implies, the words liberal and conservative mean very similar political programs here in Denmark. One must take into consideration the origin of these ideas in European politics. Once upon a time, the nations of Europe were governed by absolute monarchies. However, during the Age of Enlightenment, a group of individuals decided people should have rights, such as equality, liberty, private property, and democracy. Those individuals who for the next hundred or so years fought for these rights were called Liberals. Those individuals who fought against them, who were in support of the continued reign of the aristocracy were called Conservatives. However, as democracy took hold, and eventually all people were secured basic democratic rights, these terms began to change their meaning. In America they came to mean one thing, in Europe, another. One aspect of the original program of European liberals was the promotion of a free-market economy, and it is this element that modern European liberals have emphasized as an important ideology. However, Conservatism in Europe also promotes the capitalist ideal. Therefore, in terms of economic policy, European liberals and conservatives often have a lot in common. They sometimes differ on social and cultural issues, with the conservatives tending to be more traditional and resistant to change. In Europe, the Liberal-Conservative dichotomy is best understood in different terms, namely Progressive-Liberal. Progressive parties are those who favor socialist economic systems, where the government has more power to regulate the market, and to provide social support for its people. Progressives are also forward thinking when it comes to social or cultural issues.
Below are some of Denmark’s mainstream political parties, along with short descriptions and their positions on certain issues. I think it is interesting that there are so many different political parties in Denmark, and how they do not at all fall into the categories that American political parties do. I think the US could learn a lot from Europe’s multi-party systems. The two-party system stifles diversity of political thought, and pigeonholes politicians into having to choose from the lesser of two evils, as opposed to a party that truly represents their varied beliefs.
The Liberals (literally: The Left)- The current governing party. Generally right-of-center, meaning their name is deceptive. They originally started as an advocate of the farmers. They are economically in favor of a free-market and of keeping taxes low. Generally cautious about immigration. In favor of individual rights in relation to the state and other institutions, and less interested in the rights of groups.
The Conservative Party-In coalition with the Liberals. Similar in many issues. Right-of-center, though more liberal than other European conservative parties. Slightly more skeptical of immigration and minority rights.
The Social Democrats (Socialdemokraterne)-Currently the largest opposition party. A progressive, left-of-center party. Economically in favor of social democracy, that is a strong social welfare state. Culturally progressive, and slightly more sympathetic to immigrants.
The Unity Alliance, The Red-Green Alliance-A combination of the Communist Party of Denmark, the Left-Socialist Party, and the Socialist Worker’s Party, this is Denmark’s farthest left party. They support a comprehensive social welfare system, social justice for all, environmental sustainability, and international solidarity in the struggle against capitalism. They are also opposed to the EU.
The Danish Peoples Party-I have written about this party before, here. It is perhaps the most enigmatic party. On the one hand, they support improved welfare for the elderly and for animals, but are opposed to the EU. Their most outspoken policies, however, are opposition to immigration into Denmark. They are practically openly racist against Muslims and other non-Danes. They oppose headscarves, and mosques in Denmark. They once offered to pay immigrants to leave the country permanently. They also support higher spending on national defense and the US lead war on terror. Their political catchphrase is “Denmark for Danes.”I would like to be clear, these are only my perceptions and opinions about Danish politics. If you want more information, I am providing links to their English-language web-pages. Except for Danish People’s Party, which, not surprisingly, only has a page in Danish.
Venstre, Konservative, Socialdemokraterne, Socialistisk Folkeparti, Enhedslisten, Dansk Folkeparti (Danish), Radikale Venstre, Liberal Alliance.
