EXPLORATIONS OF CONTEMPORARY DENMARK Volume 41 2023 Introduction Jens Birk.......................................................................................................................................................x Denmark, Greenland, and the Arctic Emma N. Chiusano ......................................................................................................................................1 As a constituent of the Kingdom of Denmark, Greenland provides Denmark with a claim to the Arctic. Independence has been long debated in Greenland, posing a continuing risk for Denmark. With geopolitical strife intensifying in the Arctic, Denmark must invest in its relationship with Greenland or risk losing its status as an Arctic nation. This article examines the relationship between Denmark and Greenland, specifically as it pertains to the Arctic. Ensuring the long-term sustainability of the Danish health-care system Laura X. Duffany..........................................................................................................................................8 Denmark has one of the most comprehensive and well-funded public health-care systems in the world; however, internal communication issues, shortages of health-care professionals, and an emerging private sector threaten the long-term sustainability of the system. This article analyzes the current organizational structure, economic model, and patient demographics of the Danish universal health-care system and proposes a new, integrative model that efficiently prioritizes the quality of patient care. Danish mortgage debt and systemic risk from rising interest rates Ben Wainfan...............................................................................................................................................17 Denmark’s stable and efficient mortgage system, combined with over a decade of low interest rates and accommodative tax policies, has enabled Danish borrowers to accumulate Europe’s highest debt-toincome ratio. With interest rates and debt servicing costs rising, Danish borrowers, particularly the most leveraged ones, face financial challenges that may affect the economy and society for years to come. This article explores the implications of rising interest rates and offers policy solutions to protect the most vulnerable from overindebtedness. Benefits and pitfalls of Denmark’s high-trust society Raihan Alam............................................................................................................................................... 24 Denmark exhibits some of the highest levels of trust in the world. Many attribute the country’s social and economic successes to its citizens’ strong trust in its institutions and in other people. However, the socioeconomic costs of such high levels of trust have been less explored. This article reviews both the benefits and costs of Denmark’s high levels of trust and discusses ways the country can make the best use of this crucial resource. Workforce education in Denmark Bryce Erdman.............................................................................................................................................32 Denmark is known for its well-funded, tertiary education system that allows students to obtain most degree levels without much debt. However, due to a variety of factors, there is a shortage of students who pursue long-term degrees. This article presents an overview of the workforce education system in Denmark, analyzes the strengths and weaknesses of the system, and proposes recommendations to address these issues. The Danish equality paradox: Women in Danish corporate management Caroline E. Palmer.....................................................................................................................................40 Compared to the other Nordic countries, Denmark is lagging in its representation of women in management positions in the private sector. Corporate boards and executive positions do not meet the EU guideline of 40% women. Danish culture, lack of quotas, and parental leave legislation, among other factors, contribute to this disparity. While changing a country’s culture is a long-term process, quota legislation would spur immediate progress and increase the number of women in these upper-level business roles. viii
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