Denmark Facts

Denmark, state in Northern Europe.The real Denmark includes the peninsula of Jutland and the archipelago east of it, whose largest islands are Zealand, Funen and Lolland, as well as the much further east Bornholm. Denmark also includes the Faroe Islands (self-government since 1948) and Greenland (self-government since 1979); 42,959 km ² (excluding the Faroe Islands and Greenland), 5,814,461 residents (2019). The capital is Copenhagen.

Country facts

• Kingdom of Denmark / Kingdom of Denmark
• Country abbreviation: DK
• Area: 42 959 km²
• Population (2019): 5.8 million residents
• Capital: Copenhagen
• Main language: Danish
• State: Monarchy
• Head of State: Margrethe II (Queen)
• Head of Government: Mette Frederiksen
• Per capita GDP (2018): US $ 60,726
• GNI per capita (2018): US $ 60,190
• Currency unit: 1 krona = 100 öre
• Currency code: DKK
• Country number (telephony): 45
• Internet domain name: dk
• Time difference compared to Sweden: 0
• National Day: June 5 (Fredrik VII signs the Constitution of the Danish Empire, 1849)

Nature

• Land use: forest (10%), agricultural land (56%), other (34%)
• Highest mountain: Yding Skovhøj (173 m asl)
• Longest river: Gudenå (158 km)

Population

• Population density (2019): 135 residents per km²
• Natural population growth (2019): 0.1%; birth rate 11 ‰, death rate 10 ‰
• Age structure (2019): 0-14 years (16%), 15-64 (64%), 65- (20%)
• Life expectancy (2019): men 79 years, women 83 years
• Infant mortality (2019): 4 per 1,000 live births
• Population forecast 2050: 6 million residents
• HDI (2017): 0.929 (place 11 of 180)
• Urbanization rate (2019): 88%
• Most populous cities (2018): Copenhagen (613,288 residents), Aarhus (273,077), Odense (178,210)

Business

• Industry’s contribution to GDP (2017): agriculture (1%), industry (23%), service (76%)
• Exports (2017): US $ 113,600 million
• Main export products: machines and instruments, meat and meat products, dairy products
• Main exporting countries: Germany, Sweden, UK
• Imports (2017): US $ 94,930 million
• Main import products: raw materials, food
• Main importing countries: Germany, Sweden, the Netherlands
• Railway network (2017): 3,500 km

Geography

Location and Borders

Denmark is a Scandinavian country located in Northern Europe, bordered by Germany to the south, the North Sea to the west, and the Baltic Sea to the east. Denmark’s geographical position makes it a key gateway between continental Europe and Scandinavia. The country consists of the Jutland Peninsula, which extends from the mainland of Europe, and an extensive number of islands, with over 400 islands, of which approximately 70 are inhabited. Some of the largest and most notable islands include Zealand, Funen, and the North Jutlandic Island. The capital city, Copenhagen, is situated on the island of Zealand and is the largest city in the country.

Denmark has a relatively small land area of about 42,943 square kilometers (16,577 square miles), making it one of the smallest countries in Europe. However, despite its small size, Denmark has an important strategic location that has influenced its culture, history, and economy for centuries. The country is bordered by the Skagerrak and Kattegat straits, which connect the North Sea with the Baltic Sea, making Denmark an important maritime nation.

Topography and Natural Features

Denmark’s topography is relatively flat, with most of the country consisting of low-lying terrain and gently rolling hills. The highest point in Denmark is Mollehoj, which rises to 171 meters (561 feet) above sea level, located in the southern part of the Jutland Peninsula. Denmark’s landscape is shaped by the influence of glacial activity during the Ice Age, leaving behind fertile plains, sandy dunes, and a patchwork of rivers and lakes.

The country is surrounded by water on three sides, giving Denmark a vast coastline that stretches for about 7,300 kilometers (4,500 miles) when including all of its islands and inlets. The coastline features sandy beaches, cliffs, and a number of fjords, most notably the Limfjord in Jutland, which divides the northern part of the peninsula. Denmark is also home to many wetlands, coastal marshes, and estuaries that provide vital habitats for bird species and other wildlife.

The islands of Denmark are diverse in their characteristics. Zealand, the largest island, is predominantly agricultural and forested, while Funen is known for its rolling hills and agriculture. The smaller islands, such as Bornholm in the Baltic Sea, have a more rugged terrain and feature cliffs and rocky shores.

Climate and Seasonal Variation

Denmark has a temperate maritime climate, characterized by mild temperatures, moderate rainfall, and relatively stable weather patterns. The proximity to the sea plays a significant role in shaping the climate, keeping temperatures relatively mild throughout the year. Summers are cool, with average temperatures around 17°C (63°F), while winters are cold, with temperatures rarely dropping below -5°C (23°F). Snowfall is common during the winter months, but it is generally not as heavy or prolonged as in other northern European countries.

The spring and autumn months are transitional, with mild temperatures and frequent rainfall. Denmark experiences relatively high humidity levels throughout the year, and it is known for its long daylight hours during the summer, particularly in the northern regions. The country’s maritime influence also means that the weather can change quickly, and rainfall is distributed evenly throughout the year, with the wettest months occurring between August and October.

Due to its latitude, Denmark experiences relatively long summer days and short winter days. In the summer, the sun can stay above the horizon for up to 17 hours, while winter days can be as short as 7 hours. This variation in daylight is particularly noticeable in the far north of the country.

People

Population and Demographics

Denmark has a population of approximately 5.8 million people. The country is one of the most homogeneous in Europe in terms of ethnicity, with the vast majority of the population being of Danish descent. However, Denmark has become more ethnically diverse in recent years due to immigration from countries such as Turkey, Syria, Iraq, and Pakistan, particularly in the larger cities. Copenhagen, the capital, is the most multicultural city in Denmark, with a significant immigrant population that contributes to the city’s cultural and social diversity.

Denmark has a relatively high standard of living, with a well-educated population and a strong welfare system. The country has one of the highest life expectancies in the world, and Danes enjoy a high quality of life, supported by an efficient healthcare system, comprehensive social services, and a stable economy. The population is aging, with an increasing proportion of elderly citizens, which presents challenges for the country’s healthcare system and pension schemes.

The Danish population is predominantly urban, with more than 80% of the people living in cities or urban areas. Copenhagen, Aarhus, Odense, and Aalborg are the largest cities, and they serve as centers for commerce, education, and culture. The rural population is concentrated in Jutland and the islands, where agriculture and farming remain important to the economy.

Languages

Danish is the official language of Denmark and is spoken by the vast majority of the population. It is a North Germanic language and is closely related to Norwegian and Swedish, with many similarities in vocabulary, grammar, and pronunciation. Danish is written using the Latin alphabet, and it is taught in schools from an early age. While Danish is the primary language, many Danes speak English fluently, particularly in urban areas and among younger generations. German is also spoken by some, especially in areas close to the German border.

Danish is the language of government, business, and education, but in recent years, there has been an increased focus on multilingualism in the education system. Many Danish students learn additional languages, such as French or Spanish, in school. The Danish language has a relatively simple grammatical structure compared to other European languages, though pronunciation can be challenging for non-native speakers due to its unique vowel sounds and intonation.

Religion

The majority of the Danish population is Christian, with the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Denmark, also known as the Church of Denmark, being the state church. Approximately 75% of Danes are members of the Church of Denmark, although church attendance is relatively low, and the population is predominantly secular in practice. The Church of Denmark plays a ceremonial role in the country, and it is involved in key national events such as royal weddings, baptisms, and funerals.

Denmark is known for its strong tradition of secularism, with a significant portion of the population identifying as non-religious or agnostic. Religion has a relatively low profile in daily life, and Danes tend to place high importance on personal autonomy and individual freedom of belief. Despite this secularism, religious holidays such as Christmas and Easter are widely celebrated, and many cultural events are tied to Christian traditions.

There is also a small but growing Muslim population in Denmark, primarily due to immigration, as well as smaller communities of Jews, Hindus, and Buddhists. Religious tolerance is enshrined in Danish law, and while there have been some challenges related to the integration of immigrant communities, Denmark generally upholds freedom of religion.

Economy

Overview

Denmark has a highly developed, export-oriented economy, with a strong focus on services, manufacturing, and agriculture. It has a well-functioning welfare state that provides universal healthcare, free education, and social benefits. Denmark consistently ranks as one of the happiest and wealthiest countries in the world, with a high GDP per capita, a strong labor market, and low levels of inequality.

The Danish economy is characterized by a high degree of economic freedom, and it is one of the most open economies in the world, with a significant portion of the country’s GDP generated from international trade. Denmark’s key trading partners include Germany, Sweden, the United Kingdom, and the United States. The country is a member of the European Union, although it has opted out of some areas, such as the Eurozone.

Denmark is known for its high level of productivity, particularly in sectors such as renewable energy, information technology, and biotechnology. The country also has a large public sector, which plays a vital role in the economy, and a highly skilled labor force, supported by an extensive education system.

Industry and Manufacturing

Denmark has a diverse industrial base, with key sectors including manufacturing, renewable energy, and information technology. One of Denmark’s leading industries is the production of machinery, particularly in the fields of wind turbines and renewable energy technologies. Denmark is a global leader in wind power and has been a pioneer in the development of wind turbines. The country is home to major renewable energy companies such as Vestas, which is one of the largest wind turbine manufacturers in the world.

The pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries are also vital to Denmark’s economy, with companies like Novo Nordisk and Lundbeck being significant players on the global stage. These companies contribute to Denmark’s reputation as a hub for medical research and innovation.

Denmark has a strong manufacturing sector, particularly in the production of machinery, chemicals, and electronics. The country is known for its high-quality design and engineering, particularly in furniture, household goods, and industrial products. Danish design is globally recognized for its functionality, aesthetics, and simplicity.

The country is also an important exporter of agricultural products, including pork, dairy, and grains. Denmark’s agriculture sector is highly efficient and technologically advanced, with the country being one of the world’s largest exporters of pork and dairy products.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

Agriculture has been an important part of Denmark’s economy for centuries, and it remains a significant industry, particularly in rural areas. Denmark is one of the world’s leading producers and exporters of pork, and the country’s dairy industry is also notable, with Denmark being a major exporter of dairy products such as butter, cheese, and milk. The country is known for its efficient farming techniques, which are supported by high levels of technology and automation.

The country’s favorable climate and fertile soil allow for the cultivation of a wide range of crops, including cereals, potatoes, and vegetables. Denmark is a key producer of organic products, and the organic farming sector has grown significantly in recent years. Additionally, Denmark has a robust fisheries sector, with a long history of fishing in the North Sea and the Baltic Sea.

Denmark’s natural resources are limited, but the country has significant reserves of oil and natural gas in the North Sea, which have contributed to the country’s energy sector. Denmark is increasingly focusing on renewable energy, with wind power playing a central role in the country’s energy strategy. The country aims to become carbon-neutral by 2050, and investments in solar, wind, and biomass energy are part of this effort.

Government

Political System

Denmark is a constitutional monarchy with a parliamentary democracy. The Danish political system is characterized by a multi-party structure, where power is divided between the executive, legislative, and judicial branches. The monarch, currently Queen Margrethe II, serves as the ceremonial head of state, while political power is vested in the prime minister and the parliament.

The prime minister is the head of government and is usually the leader of the largest party in the Folketing, the Danish parliament. The Folketing has 179 members, who are elected for a four-year term through a system of proportional representation. Denmark’s political system emphasizes cooperation, consensus, and the protection of civil liberties.

Denmark is a member of the European Union, the United Nations, and NATO, and its foreign policy focuses on human rights, international cooperation, and regional stability.

Legal System

Denmark’s legal system is based on civil law and is characterized by its emphasis on individual rights, freedom of speech, and equality before the law. The country has an independent judiciary, with the Supreme Court of Denmark being the highest court in the country. Danish law is based on legislation passed by the parliament and is influenced by international law, particularly European Union regulations.

The legal system in Denmark is highly regarded for its transparency, efficiency, and respect for human rights. Denmark has a well-established system for protecting individual freedoms, and the country consistently ranks among the top nations in the world for rule of law and anti-corruption efforts.

Foreign Relations

Denmark maintains strong foreign relations, particularly with other European Union countries, as well as with the United States, Canada, and Scandinavian neighbors. Denmark is an active member of NATO and has contributed to peacekeeping missions in places such as Afghanistan and the Balkans. Denmark’s foreign policy emphasizes diplomacy, human rights, and international cooperation.

The country also has strong economic ties with neighboring countries, including Germany, Sweden, and the United Kingdom, and it plays an influential role in European Union policy. Denmark is known for its advocacy of environmental sustainability and climate action, and it has committed to ambitious targets for reducing carbon emissions. Denmark’s foreign policy focuses on creating a more peaceful and sustainable world, and the country is a leading voice on issues such as renewable energy, global health, and humanitarian aid.

Denmark Map