Denmark grapples with low birth rates as debates intensify over family policies and societal pressures

Television host Anders Lund Madsen quickly explains his reason for having eight children: he enjoys both making and raising them. In contrast, Maria Ladegaard, a member of the Liberal party, states she remains childless and only considers having children for her boyfriend’s sake, expressing a reluctance to do so despite societal pressures. She notes that commentary on declining birth rates only diminishes her desire to have children.

Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen has labeled Denmark’s low birth rate of 1.5 children per woman as “a massive societal problem.” He has pressed for increased birth rates, suggesting that personal initiative and responsibility are essential.

During a panel discussion, representatives of Rasmussen’s party, Moderaterne, defend their stance on engaging with the country’s fertility issues. The birth rate in Denmark hit a seven-year low in 2022, prompting discussions around possible economic support measures for families, such as parental leave policies and childcare subsidies.

The debate is intensifying, with Christine Cordsen highlighting that families with children are likely to become a central focus in Danish politics as the next election approaches. The Conservatives propose bonuses for new parents and increased tax credits for family-related expenses.

Anders Lund Madsen criticizes these proposed measures, asserting that they will not change people’s reluctance to have children. Conversely, Ekatarina Andersen, a stay-at-home mother expecting her fourth child, emphasizes that meaningful family life is more compelling than financial incentives.

Issues of gender inequality in parental responsibilities and financial pressures are also central to the conversation, with women historically facing greater economic sacrifices when starting families. With first-time motherhood ages rising significantly since the 1960s, discussions around balancing personal aspirations with family planning remain crucial in Denmark’s ongoing demographic challenge.