Denmark’s EU Presidency: Advancing Security, Green Growth, and Simplification

Just weeks before assuming the EU Council Presidency, Denmark announced its departure from the so-called "Frugal Four" group of budget-conservative member states—comprising the Netherlands, Sweden, and Austria. Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen stated that this shift reflects Denmark’s renewed focus on European defence and solidarity, particularly through increased support for Ukraine. The move marks a significant change in political tone for Denmark’s Presidency, signalling a shift in priorities toward security, strategic autonomy, and investment in EU-wide resilience over strict budgetary restraint.

From July to December 2025, Denmark will hold the rotating Presidency of the Council of the European Union, guiding the legislative agenda and mediating negotiations among EU member states. Since the Lisbon Treaty (2009), Member States have worked in trios to ensure continuity and coherence. The current trio consists of Poland (January–June 2025), Denmark (July–December 2025), and Cyprus (January–June 2026). Denmark’s Presidency programme places particular emphasis on EU security, competitiveness, and sustainability. These priorities are framed by rising global instability and geopolitical tensions, which Denmark also seeks to address.

Below is a breakdown of Denmark’s key priorities by policy area:

• General Affairs

Denmark aims to advance EU enlargement—especially negotiations with Ukraine, Moldova, and the Western Balkans—while preparing the Union for necessary internal reforms. Simplification of EU legislation is a top priority, with particular focus on sustainability reporting and GDPR. Denmark will also initiate early discussions on the post-2027 Multiannual Financial Framework and promote a European Oceans Pact to improve maritime governance.

• Foreign Affairs

The Presidency will prioritise continued military and civilian support for Ukraine, strengthening EU defence and economic resilience, and deepening global strategic partnerships, particularly with Africa and the Indo-Pacific. Trade policy will take on a more assertive, values-driven approach, with attention to finalising ongoing trade negotiations, such as EU-Mercosur and EU-Mexico. Digital and climate diplomacy will also feature prominently in Denmark’s external agenda.

• Economic and Financial Affairs

Denmark will steer discussions on sound fiscal policy, financing for defence investments, and simplification measures under the ReArm Europe Plan. Key priorities include advancing the digital euro, implementing tax reforms aligned with the green transition, and updating energy taxation. The Presidency will also guide budget negotiations for 2026 and focus on sustainable finance and customs reform.

• Justice and Home Affairs

Denmark will work on implementing the Pact on Migration and Asylum, addressing migrant smuggling, and enhancing border security. It will also promote anti-corruption laws, judicial cooperation with third countries, and directives on victims’ rights. Tackling transnational organised crime—particularly drug trafficking and synthetic opioids—remains a central concern.

• Employment, Health, and Consumer Affairs

The Presidency aims to boost the resilience of healthcare systems, ensure access to medicines, and finalise the pharmaceutical package. Social priorities include promoting quality jobs, safe working conditions, inclusive care strategies, and affordable housing. Negotiations will also aim to update the EU strategy on the rights of persons with disabilities.

• Competitiveness

Denmark will advance regulatory simplification, support digital competitiveness, and promote SMEs. Strengthening the European Single Market, enhancing innovation, and encouraging sustainable technologies will be central—particularly in support of the green and digital transitions.

• Transport, Telecommunications, and Energy

Priorities include building clean energy infrastructure, ensuring secure and competitive electricity and hydrogen markets, and accelerating permitting for renewable projects. Denmark will also focus on sustainable mobility, digital infrastructure, and strengthening energy resilience against external threats.

• Agriculture and Fisheries

The Presidency will seek to balance sustainability with productivity in agriculture and fisheries. Key focus areas include sustainable pest management, animal welfare, and improved ocean governance. Efforts will align with the EU Green Deal and the Common Agricultural Policy while easing administrative burdens for farmers.

• Environment

Denmark will work toward an EU-level agreement on the 2040 climate target, support biodiversity initiatives, and lead negotiations for a global treaty to end plastic pollution. Advancing circular economy measures and climate adaptation tools will also be on the agenda.

• Education, Youth, Culture, and Sport

Priorities include building resilient, future-ready education systems, fostering youth engagement, and enhancing cultural cooperation across Europe. Special focus will be given to media literacy, civic education, and preparing young Europeans for the green and digital transitions.

This upcoming Presidency reflects Denmark’s ambition to position the EU as a secure, competitive, and sustainable global actor. As a consensus-builder and policy driver, Denmark is well placed to guide the Union through a crucial six-month period of legislative progress and strategic direction.