Denmark launching paradigm shift in foreign policy

Values like democracy, human rights and equality to be preferred over economic interests, according to foreign minister

Sep 10, 2020

Denmark’s strong stance against the Lukashenko regime in Belarus looks to be an example of a new paradigm shift in the country’s foreign policy.

According to the foreign minister, Jeppe Kofod, there should be no doubt that Denmark’s actions on the international stage should reflect social democratic values.

In short, there should be more of a focus on democracy, human rights, the climate and equality, rather than, for instance, economic interests.

EU under pressure
Kofod said that social democratic values are under fire around the world, adding that a new Danish foreign affairs strategy in early 2021 would reflect that.

“We don’t only face challenges outside Europe, but also inside,” Kofod told DR Nyheder.

“We see EU member states in which the principles of rule of law are under fire, and we must take that seriously.”

Step up or step out
Kofod underlined that it was important for Denmark to push the agenda again, or face others defining how the world will look like in the future.

“We see, for instance, China stepping forward on the global scene, the US taking a step back and Russia stepping on us all,” Kofod said.

It will be just the third time in history that Denmark will have adopted a new foreign affairs and security policy strategy.

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Denmark launching paradigm shift in foreign policy

New US Arctic security strategy co-opts Denmark as Russia deterrent

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