What are you doing in Denmark? Having common names in Denmark

In this episode, Derek, Brooke, and Conrad dive into Denmark’s strict baby naming laws

Apr 30, 2025

Ever wonder why there are so many common names in Denmark? This week, Derek, Brooke, and Conrad dive into Denmark’s strict baby naming laws – with plenty of laughs along the way from our friend Mathias Bach.

From government-approved name lists to the historical reasons behind them, we break down what you can (and can’t) name your kid if you’re raising them in Denmark. Plus, a few awkward personal stories about trying to navigate Danish names as a foreigner.

You can listen to the episode also on Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and Acast.

Tickets for our LIVE SHOW on 6 May at Copenhagen’s Comedy Zoo Get Tickets Here

You can leave your own voice note for us here: speakpipe.com/waydid or email hello@robe-trotting.com

Don’t forget to share this podcast with any friends who have made the move to Denmark.

——————————————————————

The Copenhagen Post on Instagram

What Are You Doing in Denmark on Instagram

What Are You Doing in Denmark on Youtube

TOP STORIES

Government unveils major criminal justice reform: harsher sentences, more prison space, and focus on rehabilitation

Denmark’s newly presented justice reform includes doubled sentences for violent crimes, over 2,000 new prison places by 2036, and expanded use of alternatives like electronic monitoring and work-based rehabilitation. Critics question its effectiveness, but ministers insist on action over research
The retirement age in Denmark has been raised to 70 – the political war over senior life has begun

No topic occupies more space in Danish politics than the retirement age. Today, Folketinget has raised the retirement age to 70 years for people born after the end of 1970. The trade union movement strongly opposes.
Minister: “We support bigger internationalization of the Universities – if done right”.

The Danish higher education system needs internationalization. This goal, however, comes with several obstacles in its path according to the people in charge
Six new routes and increased seating with SAS winter program

Starting from this upcoming winter, SAS will expand the possible routes departing from Copenhagen Airport with six new destinations. The company will also increase frequencies on existing routes, leading to a total increase of 40% in seat capacity
An international’s book becomes a bestseller in Denmark

As his book Quantum Humanitarian quietly reaches readers across Europe — recently ranked as the #1 hot release on Amazon in philanthropy, refugee studies, and conflict response, and a #1 bestseller in its category — Ali Al Mokdad reflects on the disconnect in modern aid work, and the quiet strength of those who lead without being seen
Non-EU students consistently graded 0.4 points lower than Danish classmates

On average, students with non-EU backgrounds receive 0.4 points lower grades than Danish students. A report from the Rockwool foundation last week revealed that discrimination in primary schools occurs though overall lower GPA depending on factors such as ethnic and social backgrounds, or gender

Connect club

Connect Club is your gateway to a vibrant programme of events and an international community in Denmark.

Career

An international’s book becomes a bestseller in Denmark

As his book Quantum Humanitarian quietly reaches readers across Europe — recently ranked as the #1 hot release on Amazon in philanthropy, refugee studies, and conflict response, and a #1 bestseller in its category — Ali Al Mokdad reflects on the disconnect in modern aid work, and the quiet strength of those who lead without being seen
“Don’t erase who you are to fit in: STAND OUT—but with substance”

Ambre James-Brown didn’t just move to Denmark for a job —she stepped into a new life chapter, balancing ambition with vulnerability, and career with identity. As Vice President of Global Media & Stakeholder Communication at Novo Nordisk, she’s learned that success isn’t about assimilation. “I like to say I’m Dane-ish. More “ish” than Dane. I’m bringing the best parts of me to blend with the best parts of Denmark,” she explains.
DRC confirms layoffs (including Copenhagen) and the closure in six countries

The Danish humanitarian powerhouse confirms a total of 2,000 layoffs, some of which will also affect the main headquarters in Copenhagen

Want to advertise your job with CPH Post?

Jobs

What are you doing in Denmark? Having common names in Denmark

Government unveils major criminal justice reform: harsher sentences, more prison space, and focus on rehabilitation

The retirement age in Denmark has been raised to 70 – the political war over senior life has begun

Minister: “We support bigger internationalization of the Universities – if done right”.

Six new routes and increased seating with SAS winter program

An international’s book becomes a bestseller in Denmark

Non-EU students consistently graded 0.4 points lower than Danish classmates

Copenhagen: Explore The City Hall with Mayor of Children and Youth, Jakob Næsager

Copenhagen: The Sound of Copenhagen 🎧

An international’s book becomes a bestseller in Denmark

“Don’t erase who you are to fit in: STAND OUT—but with substance”

DRC confirms layoffs (including Copenhagen) and the closure in six countries

Want to advertise your job with CPH Post?