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Boundary Delimitation
BD001
Delimitation of constituencies
Question: Are constituencies delimited for election purposes?
Answer:
b . No, existing regional/provincial/other boundaries are used
Comments: The multi-member constituencies correspond exactly to the administrative counties, except in the metropolitan area where 4 artificial multi-member constituencies have been constructed, district delimitation issues are virtually absent from the Danish political debate.
Parliamentary Elections Act:
8. (1) Denmark falls into three provinces: Metropolitan Copenhagen, Sealand-Southern Denmark
and Northern and Central Jutland, cf the Schedule to the Act (List of Electoral Districts).
(2) The regions are subdivided into multimember constituencies, cf the List of Electoral
Districts. Metropolitan Copenhagen encompasses four multimember constituencies.
Sealand-Southern Denmark and Northern and Central Jutland are each made up of three
multimember constituencies.
Source:
Parliamentary Elections Act, P2, Art. 8 (1-2)
The Parliamentary Electoral System
in Denmark, p. 4
https://www.thedanishparliament.dk/~/media/pdf/publikationer/english/the-parliamentary-system-of-denmark_2011.ashx
Parliamentary Elections and Election Administration in Denmark (Dr Jorgen Elklit and Anne Birte Pade, Election consultant Ministry of Interior)
Verified: 2019/05/22
BD002
Question: The authority responsible for final approval of the constituency boundaries is:
Answer(s):
d . A government department or agency
Comments: The Minister for Economic Affairs and the Interior can issue an executive order for minor adjustments to the List of Electoral Districts. The Minister for Economic Affairs and the Interior can issue an executive order for changes to the List of Electoral Districts in maintaining the necessary subdivision of electoral districts independent of any changes in subdivisions of municipalities or parishes.
Source: Folketing (Parliamentary) Elections act, Pt.2 art.8(5-6).
Verified: 2016/10/14
BD003
Criteria for drawing boundaries
Question: On what criteria are the boundaries drawn?
Answer(s):
d . Conformity with local jurisdiction boundaries g . Other
Comments: 8. (1) Denmark falls into three provinces: Metropolitan Copenhagen, Sealand-Southern Denmark
and Northern and Central Jutland, cf the Schedule to the Act (List of Electoral Districts).
general elections and referendums
(2) The regions are subdivided into multimember constituencies, cf the List of Electoral
Districts. Metropolitan Copenhagen encompasses four multimember constituencies.
Sealand-Southern Denmark and Northern and Central Jutland are each made up of three
multimember constituencies.
(3) The multimember constituencies are split into nomination districts, cf the List of
Electoral Districts.
(4) A nomination district consists of one or more municipalities or a part of a municipality.
For nomination districts consisting of more than one municipality or a part of a municipality, the common functions are carried out by the municipality identified as a constituency
municipality in the List of Electoral Districts
Source: Folketing (Parliamentary) Elections act, Pt.2 art.8(1-4).
Verified: 2019/05/22
BD004
Question: If population is a criterion, which population figure is used?
Answer:
g . Not applicable
Comments: No, constituencies are delimited for election purposes.
Source:
Verified: 2015/06/08
BD005
Body responsible for drawing boundaries
Question: The body responsible for drawing the boundaries is:
Answer(s):
h . Not applicable
Comments: No, constituencies are delimited for election purposes.
Source:
Verified: 2015/06/08
BD006
Question: What statistical or other reasons trigger the redrawing of electoral constituency boundaries?
Answer(s):
m . Not applicable
Comments: No, constituencies are delimited for election purposes.
Source:
Verified: 2015/06/08
Electoral Systems
ES001
Head of State
Question: How is the Head of State selected?
Answer(s):
g . Inherited monarchy
Comments: Head of State is the King or Queen - Royal power is inherited by men and women in accordance with the provisions of the Succession to the Throne Act, 27th March, 1953.
Source: Constitution, Sec. 2
Verified: 2019/05/22
ES002
Head of Government
Question: How is the Head of Government selected?
Answer:
e . Appointed
Comments: The King shall appoint and dismiss the Prime Minister and the other Ministers.
Source: Constitution, Sec.14
Verified: 2019/05/22
ES003
President
Question: Does the country have a president?
Answer:
b . No
Comments:
Source: Constitution, Pt. 3 Sec. 14
Verified: 2019/05/22
ES004
Number of Chambers
Question: The national legislature consists of (one/two chambers):
Answer:
a . One chamber
Comments: The Folketing shall consist of one assembly of not more than one hundred and seventy-nine Members, of whom two Members shall be elected in the Faroe Islands and two Members in Greenland.
Source: Constitution, Sec. 28
Verified: 2019/05/22
ES005
Electoral System (Chamber 1)
Question: What is the electoral system for Chamber 1 of the national legislature?
Answer(s):
g . List Proportional Representation
Comments:
Article 76:
The votes cast for each party in all nomination districts in a multimember constituency shall be summed up. The votes cast for each individual candidate shall equally be summed up. Each number of votes appearing as a result of the summation, cf. subsection (1), shall be divided by 1 – 2 – 3 and so on until such number of divisions equivalent to the maximum number of seats expected to be allocated to the party or to the independent candidate has been performed. The party or the independent candidate having the highest resulting quotients shall be given the first seat in the multimember constituency. The second highest quotient entails the second seat and so on and so forth, until all constituency seats in the multimember constituency have been distributed among the parties and the independent candidates. If two or more quotients are of equal size, lots shall be drawn.
Source: Electoral Law, Art. 76.
Verified: 2019/05/23
ES006
Question: What is the electoral system for Chamber 2 of the national legislature?
Answer(s):
k . The national legislature consists of one chamber only
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/10/14
ES007
Question: If List PR is used, is a highest average formula used?
Answer:
b . Saint-Lague Formula
Comments: Proportional representation system according to a modified version of the St. Lague method and using the method of greatest remainders.
Source: Parliamentary Elections and Election Administration in Denmark (Dr Jorgen Elklit and Anne Birte Pade, Election consultant Ministry of Interior), sec 1, art. 1.2.1
Verified: 2015/06/08
ES008
Question: What is the level at which seats are distributed in Chamber 1?
Answer(s):
a . National level b . Specially delimited constituencies
Comments: Seats allocation takes place at two levels, a multimember constituency (lower) level and a national (higher) level. Fo this reason, it is often describes as a two-tier allocation system and classified with other electoral systems with the same basic properties, such as Sweden, Norway, Iceland, Germany and Estonia.
Source: Parliamentary Elections and Election Administration in Denmark (Dr Jorgen Elklit and Anne Birte Pade, Election consultant Ministry of Interior), sec 1, art.1
Verified: 2015/06/08
ES009
Question: What is the level at which seats are distributed in Chamber 2?
Answer(s):
d . Not applicable
Comments: The national legislature only consists of one chamber.
Source:
Verified: 2015/06/08
ES010
Question: Are special constituencies or seats reserved in Chamber 1 for specific groups, such as minorities, specific nationality or other groups?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments: The contituency of the island of Bornholm in the Baltic is guaranteed an allocation of at least 2 seats even if it might not qualify on the basis of the said numbers.
Source: Parliamentary Elections and Election Administration in Denmark (Dr Jorgen Elklit and Anne Birte Pade, Election consultant Ministry of Interior), sec 1, art. 1.1
Verified: 2015/06/08
ES012
Question: Are special constituencies or seats reserved in Chamber 2 for specific groups, such as minorities, specific nationality or other groups?
Answer:
c . The national legislature consists of one chamber only
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2015/06/08
ES014
Question: What is the legally imposed minimum threshold of votes required by a party to win seats in Chamber 1?
Answer:
a . No minimum
Comments: However, for the allocation of compensatory seats, the Danish electoral system has 3 different electoral thresholds:
1. Winning a seat directly
2. Obtaining in two of the three electoral regions a number of votes corresponding to the regional votes/ratio, or
3. Per cent of the valid, national.
Source: Parliamentary Elections and Election Administration in Denmark (Dr Jorgen Elklit and Anne Birte Pade, Election consultant Ministry of Interior), sec 1, art. 1.2.2
Elections Act, part 10, art. 76,77
Verified: 2015/06/08
ES015
Question: What is the legally imposed minimum threshold of votes required by a party to win seats in Chamber 2?
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2015/06/08
ES016
Question: What is the legally imposed minimum threshold of votes required by a candidate (independent/party) to win a seat in Chamber 1?
Answer:
a . No minimum
Comments: However, for the allocation of compensatory seats the Danish electoral system has 3 different electroal thresholds:
1. Winning a seat directly in any of the 17 multi-member constituencies.
2. Obtaining in two of three electoral regions a number of votes corresponding to the regional votes/seats ratio.
3. Per cent of the valid, national vote.
Source: Parliamentary Elections and Election Administration in Denmark (Dr Jorgen Elklit and Anne Birte Pade, Election consultant Ministry of Interior), sec 1, art. 1.2.2
Elections Act, part 10, art 76, 77
Verified: 2015/06/08
ES017
Question: What is the legally imposed minimum threshold of votes required by a candidate (independent/party) to win a seat in Chamber 2?
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2015/06/08
ES018
Question: Regarding the timing of the elections for Chamber 1, which of the following is true? Elections take place:
Answer(s):
a . At fixed intervals (specify length) b . Elections can be called at any time (specify by whom) c . On a fixed day of the week (specify day, specify if holiday)
Comments: The King can call an election at any time as well as the PM or else they happen every 4 years. Elections have traditionaly been held on Tuesdays.
Source: Constitution, sec 32
Verified: 2015/06/08
ES019
Question: Regarding the timing of the elections for Chamber 2, which of the following is true? Elections take place:
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2015/06/08
ES020
Question: Regarding Chamber 1 elections (excluding advance voting, postal voting, etc):
Answer:
a . Voting takes place on one day
Comments:
Source: Elections Act, part 7, art. 46 (7)
Verified: 2015/06/08
ES021
Question: Regarding Chamber 2 elections (excluding advance voting, postal voting, etc):
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2015/06/08
Legislative Framework
LF001
Status of Electoral Law
Question: What is the status of the electoral law governing national elections?
Answer(s):
a . Part of Constitution b . Separate legislation
Comments: The law governing elections is comprised of the Constitution and the Parliamentary Elections Act.
Source: Constitution of Denmark
Parliamentary Elections Act of Denmark
Verified: 2019/05/23
LF002
Question: What is the date of the latest version of the national electoral law (including latest amendments)?
Answer:
a . January 2000 or later
Comments: Consolidated Act No. 369 of 10 April 2014
Source: Folketing (Parliamentary) Elections Act
Verified: 2016/10/14
LF003
Electoral Law covers
Question: The national electoral law covers:
Answer(s):
a . National elections d . Referendums e . Other
Comments: Parliamentary Elections Act, chapter 1:
General elections and referendums
Source: Parliamentary Elections Act
Verified: 2019/05/23
LF004
Compulsory/voluntary voting
Question: Is voting on the national level voluntary or compulsory?
Answer(s):
a . Voting is voluntary
Comments: Any Danish subject who is permanently domiciled in the Realm, and who has the age qualification for suffrage as provided for in Sub-section (2) of this section shall have the right to
vote at Folketing elections, provided that he has not been declared incapable of conducting his own affairs. It shall be laid down by statute to what extent conviction and public assistance amounting to poor relief within the meaning of the law shall entail disenfranchisement.
Source: Constitution Sec 29(1)
Parliamentary Elections Act Ch.1, P.1, Art.1(1)
Verified: 2019/05/23
LF005
Question: Are there provisions in the law which permit or require regional and/ or local election (s) to be held on the same day as national elections?
Answer:
a . National elections are not held on the same day as regional or local elections
Comments: Not held but possible
Source: Klaus Joseph
Verified: 2015/06/08
LF006
Question: Are there provisions in the law which permit or require presidential election (s) to be held on the same day as national legislative elections?
Answer(s):
c . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2015/06/08
LF007
Electoral Disputes Agency(ies)
Question: What are the agency(ies) responsible for the first level of formal electoral disputes?
Answer(s):
d . Other
Comments: Parliamentary Election Act, article 88 (1):
Any voter may complain of general elections. Complaints are to be addressed to the Folketing and submitted to the Minister for Economic Affairs and the Interior. Complaints must Ministry for Economic Affairs and the Interior have been received by the Minister for Economic Affairs and the Interior by the weekday after election day at the latest.
Source: Election Act, Ch. 1, P.11, Art. 88(1)
Verified: 2019/05/23
LF008
Question: If the agency(ies) which settles formal disputes is/are specially appointed/elected; by whom?
Answer(s):
h . Not applicable
Comments: The agency which settles formal disputer are not specially appointed/elected.
Source:
Verified: 2015/06/08
LF009
Question: Who has the right to submit cases to the person or agency(ies)which settles formal disputes?
Answer(s):
a . Candidates b . Parties c . Voters
Comments:
Source: Election Act, chapter 11, part 11, art. 88(1)
Verified: 2015/06/08
LF010
Question: What body(ies) is the final appellate authority for formal electoral disputes?
Answer(s):
f . Other
Comments: The Folketing (parliament) is the final appellate authority for electoral disputes.
Source: Parliamentary Elections and Election Administration in Denmark (Dr Jorgen Elklit and Anne Birte Pade, Election consultant Ministry of Interior), sec 1, art. 1.15, art. 52
Election Act chapter 1, part 11, art. 87-90
Verified: 2015/06/08
LF011
Question: Which body(ies) proposes electoral reforms?
Answer(s):
b . Legislative Committee c . Government
Comments:
Source: Anne Birte Pade, Head of Election Unit, Ministry of Interior,
adp(a)im.dk
Klaus Josefsen, Election Unit, Ministry of Interior,
kjo(a)im.dk
Verified: 2015/06/08
Electoral Management
EM002
Responsibility of national EMB
Question: Does the national electoral body have the responsibility for elections at:
Answer(s):
a . National level d . Other kinds of elections (church, union, etc.) Please specify.
Comments: The Election Act assigns a number of specific tasks to the Ministry of Economic Affairs and the Interior. In practice these tasks are dealt with in a separate election unit in the Ministry, headed by the Election Consultant.
Administration of referenda is also the responsibility of the Ministry of Social Welfare.
"The Ministry for Economic Affairs and the Interior is responsible for performing tasks in connection with general elections, referenda, elections to local and regional councils as well as elections of Danish members to the European Parliament" (Official website, Ministry for economic affairs and the interior)
Source: Parliamentary Elections and Election Administration in Denmark (Dr Jorgen Elklit and Anne Birte Pade, Election consultant Ministry of Interior),
Parliamentary Elections Act, P1.
Ministry for economic affairs and the interior, official website:
https://english.oim.dk/responsibilities-of-the-ministry/elections-and-referenda/
Verified: 2019/05/23
EM003
Question: The national electoral management body reports to:
Answer(s):
d . A national government department
Comments: Reports to the Ministry for Economic Affairs and the Interior.
Source: Anne Birte Pade, Head of Election Unit, Ministry of Interior,
adp(a)im.dk
Klaus Josefsen, Election Unit, Ministry of Interior,
[email protected]
Verified: 2015/06/08
EM004
EMB budget determined by
Question: The budget of the national electoral management body is determined by:
Answer(s):
c . The legislature
Comments:
Source: Inter-Parliamentary Union, 2019, Denmark - Law making, oversight, budget
https://data.ipu.org/node/48/law-making-oversight-budget/budget?chamber_id=13376
Anne Birte Pade, Head of Election Unit, Ministry of Interior,
[email protected]
Klaus Josefsen, Election Unit, Ministry of Interior,
[email protected]
Verified: 2019/05/27
EM005
EMB expenditures controlled by
Question: The expenditures of the national electoral management body are controlled by:
Answer(s):
d . A national government department
Comments: The expenses connected with elections are covered mainly by the municipalities. The total expenses connected to a general election for municipalities have been estimated to be around DKr. 50-60 million (approximately US $10 million). For the Ministry of the Interior and Health, direct expenses are only DKr. 800,000 (approximately US $145,000).
"Budgets for EMBs under the Governmental Model are usually part of the budget of the government ministry responsible for implementing electoral processes, as in [...] Denmark."
Source: The Parliamentary Electoral System in Denmark: Guide to the Danish Electoral System by the Ministry of the Interior and Health/ Aarhus University, Jan. 2011. Ch. 5 sec. 5.
Electoral Management Design, Revised edition. Chapter 7: The Financing of EMBs. Pg. 210.
http://www.eods.eu/library/IDEA.Electoral-Management-Design.pdf
Verified: 2019/05/27
EM006
Term of EMB members
Question: The term of the members of the national electoral management body is:
Answer:
d . Other
Comments: The Election Act assigns a number of specific tasks to the Minister for the Interior and Health. In practice, these tasks are dealt with in a separate election unit in the Ministry, headed by the Chief Election Officer. The number of staff assigned to handle electoral matters between elections is small (5). When an election is called, however, additional staff is temporarily assigned to assist the election unit in carrying out its tasks at the national level, directly connected with the conduct of the election.
Source: The Parliamentary Electoral System in Denmark: Guide to the Danish Electoral System by the Ministry of the Interior and Health/ Aarhus University, Jan. 2011. Ch. 2 sec. 1.
Verified: 2019/05/27
EM007
Question: The national electoral management body chairperson, or equivalent, is chosen in the following way:
Answer(s):
e . Governmental appointment
Comments: Ministerial appointment.
Source: Anne Birte Pade, Head of Election Unit, Ministry of Interior,
adp(a)im.dk
Klaus Josefsen, Election Unit, Ministry of Interior,
kjo(a)im.dk
Verified: 2019/05/27
EM012
Electoral Management model
Question: What is the Electoral Management model?
Answer:
a . Governmental
Comments:
Source: Electoral Management Design, Revised edition. P. 378
http://www.eods.eu/library/IDEA.Electoral-Management-Design.pdf
Verified: 2019/05/27
EM013
Number of EMB members
Question: The EMB is composed of:
Answer:
a . 1 - 10 members (specify)
Comments: 4.-(2) The Election Board consists of a chairman and two other members, however, in cases specified in subsection (1)(ii) and (iii) three other members.
Source: Folketing (Parliamentary) Elections Act, Consolidated Act No. 369 of 10 April 2014. Part 4 Electoral Registers and Poll Cards. Election Board, pg. 5. https://valg.oim.dk/media/16286/consolidated-act-parliament-elections-incl-chapt2-2014.pdf
Verified: 2019/05/27
EM014
Membership based on
Question: The EMB members/commissioners are selected on the basis of their:
Answer:
b . Expertise
Comments: 4.-(2)The chairman must be a High Court or Supreme Court judge, and either of the other members must be an expert on constitutional law. The extra member of the Board in cases specified in subsection (1)(ii) and (iii) must be an expert on name and trade mark rights. A deputy chairman and a substitute for both of the two other members must be appointed by the same rules.
Source: Folketing (Parliamentary) Elections Act, Consolidated Act No. 369 of 10 April 2014. Part 4 Electoral Registers and Poll Cards. Election Board, pg. 5-6. https://valg.oim.dk/media/16286/consolidated-act-parliament-elections-incl-chapt2-2014.pdf
Verified: 2019/05/27
EM015
Question: The EMB members/commissioners are selected by:
Answer(s):
c . Executive
Comments: 17.-(1) The Minister for Economic Affairs and the Interior shall set up an Election Board to decide on-
(i) inclusion in the electoral register according to section 16(2);
(ii) approval of forms for voters’ declarations for new parties requesting to participate in general elections, cf. section 12(2) and (3), and section 13(3), or European parliamentary elections, cf. section 11(2) and (3), and section 12 of the Members of the European Parliament Election Act; and
(iii) inclusion in the List of Party Names, cf. section 13(4).
Source: Folketing (Parliamentary) Elections Act, Consolidated Act No. 369 of 10 April 2014. Part 4 Electoral Registers and Poll Cards. Election Board, pg. 5. https://valg.oim.dk/media/16286/consolidated-act-parliament-elections-incl-chapt2-2014.pdf
Verified: 2019/05/27
Voter Education
VE001
Information campaigns performed by
Question: Who conducts information campaigns for national elections (informing where, when and how to register and/or vote)?
Answer(s):
d . National Government h . Political parties/ candidates i . Media
Comments: Information on elections is available from the Ministry of Social Affairs and Interior and the Danish Parliament (the Folketinget), however voter education campaigns are not conducted unless an election has been called or is in progress.
Each party conducts separate information campaigns during the elections process which inform voters of the elections within the constraints of the law.
Source: Official website for the Ministry of Economic Affairs and the Interior:
https://elections.oim.dk/
Official Website for the Danish Parliament (news page - announcements of upcoming elections):
https://www.thedanishparliament.dk/en/news
Anne Birte Pade, Head of Election Unit, Ministry of Interior,
adp(a)im.dk
Klaus Josefsen, Election Unit, Ministry of Interior,
kjo(a)im.dk
http://english.sm.dk/Sider/Velkommen.aspx
Verified: 2019/05/23
VE002
Frequency of voter education programs
Question: At the national level, how often are voter education programs conducted?
Answer:
b . Election time only
Comments: Voter education occurs at the national level when the announcement of a new election takes place. This is when the date of the election is provided and often when political parties begin campaigning.
However, "election law does not stipulate rules for the conduct of election campaigns, either as regards the maximum amount of money to be spent or the time periods where campaigning may – or may not – take place." But it is important to note that advertisements by politicians and political parties is not permitted on "national Danish television and radio and local Danish television channels [...] but are allowed on commercial radio broadcasting channels."
Finally, the "conduct and publication of opinion polls are not regulated by law. Consequently, such polls can be carried out and published right up to (or even on) election day."
Source: The Parliamentary Electoral System in Denmark
Pg. 21, section 3.5
https://www.thedanishparliament.dk/~/media/pdf/publikationer/english/the-parliamentary-system-of-denmark_2011.ashx
Verified: 2019/05/23
VE003
National civic education
Question: Is there a national civic education campaign (rights and responsibilities of citizens)?
Answer(s):
m . No information available
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2019/05/23
VE006
Question: Special voter education programs were developed at the most recent national elections for:
Answer(s):
h . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Anne Birte Pade, Head of Election Unit, Ministry of Interior,
adp(a)im.dk
Klaus Josefsen, Election Unit, Ministry of Interior,
kjo(a)im.dk
Verified: 2015/06/11
Voter Registration
VR001
Voting age
Question: What is the legal voting age in the national elections?
Answer:
c . 18
Comments:
Source: Election Act, Ch.1, P.1, Art. 1(1)
Verified: 2019/05/27
VR002
Other voting requirements
Question: Beyond age, what other qualifications exist for registering to vote and voting in the national elections?
Answer(s):
a . Citizenship b . Period of Residence e . Other
Comments: Section 29, Constitution:
Subsection 1. Any Danish subject who is permanently domiciled in the Realm, and who has the age qualification for suffrage as provided for in Sub-section (2) of this section shall have the right to vote at Folketing elections, provided that he has not been declared incapable of conducting his own affairs. It shall be laid down by statute to what extent conviction and public assistance amounting to poor relief within the meaning of the law shall entail disenfranchisement.
Section 29, Subsection 1 explained:
It is necessary to be a Danish citizen to be eligible to vote in a general election. Permanent residence in Denmark is also a requirement. This makes it necessary to be registered with the national register in Denmark. However, there are exceptions for some Danes residing abroad. For example, people who work for the Danish Ministry of Foreign Affairs or have been posted abroad by a Danish authority, company or society are entitled to vote. This also applies to people who are living abroad for educational or health-related reasons. Furthermore, it is possible to retain the right to vote by signing a document stating an intention to return to Denmark within two years of leaving the country. The rules are laid down in Section 2 of the Danish Election Act.
Source: Constitution, Sec 29, Subsection 1. https://www.thedanishparliament.dk/~/media/pdf/publikationer/english/my_constitutional_act_with_explanations.ashx
Elections Act, Ch.1, P.1, Art 2(2)
Parliamentary Elections and Election Administration in Denmark (Dr Jorgen Elklit and Anne Birte Pade, Election consultant Ministry of Interior)
Verified: 2019/05/27
VR003
Question: What restrictions on registering to vote and voting exist in the country?
Answer(s):
d . Mental disability
Comments: A person who has been legally declared incompetent cannot vote.
Section 29, Constitution:
Subsection 1. Any Danish subject who is permanently domiciled in the Realm, and who has the age qualification for suffrage as provided for in Sub-section (2) of this section shall have the right to vote at Folketing elections, provided that he has not been declared incapable of conducting his own affairs. It shall be laid down by statute to what extent conviction and public assistance amounting to poor relief within the meaning of the law shall entail disenfranchisement.
Section 29, Subsection 1 explained:
People who have been declared legally incompetent are not entitled to vote. This could be due to mental illness or mental disability, for instance. However, people who receive financial assistance from a municipality or have been convicted of a crime no longer lose the right to vote. Neither the Constitutional Act nor any other Act mentions anything about the Queen’s or her family’s right to vote. However, in practice the Queen and her family do not vote. Nor are they listed in the electoral registers.
Source: Constitution, Sec 29, Subsection 1. https://www.thedanishparliament.dk/~/media/pdf/publikationer/english/my_constitutional_act_with_explanations.ashx
Election Act, chapter 1, part 1, art. 1(1)
My Constitutional Act Ch. 4 sec. 29(1)
Verified: 2019/05/27
VR004
Authority responsible for voter registration
Question: Which is the authority responsible for the registration of voters for national elections?
Answer:
c . Local Government Authority
Comments: When an election is called, the local council shall prepare an electoral register of the voters of the municipality. The electoral register shall be prepared for each local polling district.
Source: Election Act, Ch.1, P.4, Art.18(1)
Verified: 2019/05/27
VR005
Question: What is the registration method for national elections?
Answer:
a . National citizens register
Comments: 19.-(1) The electoral registers shall be prepared on the basis of information in the national civil registration system (CRS).
(2) The electoral registers shall contain the name of the voters, birth dates and addresses, as well as serial number and a space for marking.
(3) The local council may decide that an electronic electoral register shall be used for one or more or all polling districts in the municipality.
(4) The Minister for Economic Affairs and the Interior may lay down detailed rules for the preparation of the electoral registers and their design.
Source: Election Act, chapter 1, part 4, art.19(1)
Verified: 2019/05/27
VR006
Question: How frequently is the voters register updated?
Answer:
a . Continuously
Comments: There is a computerized electoral register to which changes of residence ect. take place automatically and continuously. As a result the register is permanently updated, and only people living abroad have to take the initiative. They have to send a request to be on the register to the municipality where they were permanent residents before going abroad however, when an election is called, the local council shall prepare an electoral register of the voters of the municipalities. The electoral register shall list voters who have moved to the municipality not later than on the 18th day prior to election day and who not later than this day have notified the local national registration office of the change of address.
Source: Parliamentary Elections and Election Administration in Denmark (Dr Jorgen Elklit and Anne Birte Pade, Election consultant Ministry of Interior), sec 3, art.3(2)
Verified: 2016/10/14
VR007
Question: What methods are used to compile and update the voters register?
Answer(s):
a . Links to national population records i . Internet registration
Comments: There is a computerized electoral register which is based on information already avaliable in the national civil registration system to which the the municipal authorities update continuously and automatically. As a result, the register is permanently updated and only those living abroad have to take the intiative.
Source: Parliamentary Elections and Election Administration in Denmark (Dr Jorgen Elklit and Anne Birte Pade, Election consultant Ministry of Interior)
Verified: 2002/06/20
VR008
Is it compulsory to be on the voters register?
Question: Is it compulsory to be on the voters register?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments: Done automatically through a citizens register.
Source: Anne Birte Pade, Head of Election Unit, Ministry of Interior,
adp(a)im.dk
Klaus Josefsen, Election Unit, Ministry of Interior,
kjo(a)im.dk
Folketing (Parliamentary) Elections Act, Part 4 art.16(1).
Verified: 2019/05/27
Parties and Candidates
PC001
Registration requirements for parties (Chamber 1)
Question: What are the registration requirements for political parties running for national elections (Chamber 1)?
Answer(s):
a . Signature requirement (specify requirement) f . Other
Comments: Parties Entitled to Participate in General Elections
11. (1) The parties which gained representation in the Folketing in the last general election and which continue to be represented therein, shall be entitled to participate in general elections.
(2) The right of participation in a general election furthermore extends to new parties which have been registered with the Minister for Social Welfare according to the rules of section 12.
(3) Parties which are entitled to participate in general elections shall hereinafter be referred to as parties entitled to nomination.
12. (1) New parties wishing to participate in a general election must apply for registration with the Minister for Social Welfare not later than noon 15 days prior to election day. This application must be accompanied by declarations from voters whose number corresponds to 1/175 of all valid votes cast in the last general election as a minimum. No voters’ declarations are required in the case of the party of the German minority.
Source: Parliamentary Election Act of Denmark, Ch.1, P.3, Art. 11-12.
Verified: 2019/05/27
PC003
Registration requirements for candidates (Chamber 1)
Question: What are the legal qualifications to become a candidate at legislative elections (Chamber 1)?
Answer(s):
a . Age b . Citizenship d . Residence j . Other
Comments: 18 years; no conviction of an act which in the eyes of the public makes him or her unworthy of being a Member of the Folketing; announcement of candidature in the election.
To be eligible for election as a Member of the Danish Parliament, candidates must be entitled to vote in a general election, and must not have been convicted of an offence that makes the candidate unworthy to sit in the Parliament. Members of Parliament decide whether a candidate is worthy to sit in the Parliament.
Source: Parliamentary Election Act of Denmark, Ch.1, P.1
https://www.thedanishparliament.dk/en/democracy/elections-and-referendums
Verified: 2019/05/27
PC005
Question: What are the legal qualifications for becoming a candidate at presidential elections?
Answer(s):
k . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2014/05/21
PC006
Question: What can disqualify a candidate at legislative elections?
Answer(s):
o . Other
Comments: Conviction "of an act which in the eyes of the public makes him unworhty of being a member of the Folketing".
Source: Constitution, part IV, sec.30(1)
Verified: 2015/06/12
PC007
Question: What can disqualify a candidate at presidential elections?
Answer(s):
o . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2001/06/05
PC008
Independent candidates
Question: Can independent candidates compete in presidential or legislative elections?
Answer(s):
c . In legislative elections (Chamber 1)
Comments: An independent candidate must be recommended by at least 150 and at most 200 voters of the nomination district as supporters.
"If candidates stand as individuals and not as members of a party list, they are referred to as independents. However, very few people actually do this because it requires a large number of personal votes to be elected in this way."
Source: Parliamentary Election Act of Denmark, Ch.1, P.6, Art. 32
https://www.thedanishparliament.dk/en/democracy/elections-and-referendums
Verified: 2019/05/27
PC009
Question: If independent candidates can compete in legislative elections (Chamber 1), what are the registration requirements?
Answer(s):
a . Signature requirement (specify)
Comments: An independent candidate must be recommended by at least 150 and at most 200 voters of the nomination district as supporters.
Source: Parliamentary Election Act of Denmark
Verified: 2016/10/14
PC010
Question: If independent candidates can compete in legislative elections (Chamber 2), what are the registration requirements?
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments: Not Applicable
Source:
Verified: 2001/06/05
PC011
Question: If independent candidates can compete in presidential elections, what are the registration requirements?
Answer(s):
e . Not Applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2001/03/14
PC012
Public funding of parties
Question: Do political parties receive direct/indirect public funding?
Answer(s):
b . Direct c . Indirect
Comments: Parties are eligible for direct funding from the Danish government based on their performance at the previous election.
Source: International IDEA (2003) "Funding of Political Parties and Election Campaigns," p.372.
https://www.idea.int/sites/default/files/publications/funding-of-political-parties-and-election-campaigns.pdf
Klaus Josefsen, Election Unit, Ministry of Interior,
kjo(a)im.dk
Verified: 2019/05/27
PC015
Question: What is the basis of the public funding?
Answer(s):
b . Based on result of previous election
Comments: The funding is allocated to each of the parties based on previous election results.
Source: https://www.idea.int/sites/default/files/publications/funding-of-political-parties-and-election-campaigns.pdf
Anne Birte Pade, Head of Election Unit, Ministry of Interior,
adp(a)im.dk
Klaus Josefsen, Election Unit, Ministry of Interior,
kjo(a)im.dk
International IDEA (2003) "Funding of Political Parties and Election Campaigns"
http://www.idea.int/publications/funding_parties/upload/full.pdf
Verified: 2016/10/14
PC016
Question: If political parties receive public funding, what is the specified purpose?
Answer(s):
c . Unspecified
Comments: Political support.
Source: Anne Birte Pade, Head of Election Unit, Ministry of Interior,
adp(a)im.dk
Klaus Josefsen, Election Unit, Ministry of Interior,
kjo(a)im.dk
Verified: 2016/10/14
PC017
Question: Are political parties entitled to private funding?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments:
Source: International IDEA (2003) "Funding of Political Parties and Election Campaigns"
http://www.idea.int/publications/funding_parties/upload/full.pdf
Verified: 2016/10/14
PC018
Question: If political parties are entitled to private funding, for what period?
Answer(s):
c . As related to the election period and between elections
Comments:
Source: Anne Birte Pade, Head of Election Unit, Ministry of Interior,
adp(a)im.dk
Klaus Josefsen, Election Unit, Ministry of Interior,
kjo(a)im.dk
Verified: 2015/06/12
PC019
Question: Which of the following party financing provisions are applicable?
Answer(s):
a . Public disclosure of party contributions received
Comments: According to the rules regarding publication of party accounts enacted in 1990, all parties who nominate candidates for the Folketing elections are obliged to deliver to the the Folketing an annual account of their finances providing information about various types of income with reagrd to the central party organization: public support, membership fees, other private donations, interests, contributions from international organizations, collective private organizations, trade unions, occupational organizations, private enterprises, foundations and associations in general. From 1996, the annual account must aslo contain the name of every single private donor who on an annual basis has donated more that DKr. 20,000 to the central part organization.
Source: Anne Birte Pade, Head of Election Unit, Ministry of Interior,
adp(a)im.dk
Klaus Josefsen, Election Unit, Ministry of Interior,
kjo(a)im.dk
Verified: 2016/10/14
PC021
Question: Who is responsible for administering and enforcing party income/funding regulations at national level?
Answer(s):
c . Government department
Comments: The scheme for government is administered by the Ministry of the Interior.
Source: Parliamentary Elections and Election Administration in Denamrk
Verified: 2016/10/14
Vote Counting
VC001
Question: What are the characteristics of ballots used at national legislative elections (Chamber 1)?
Answer(s):
a . Single ballot (all registered parties listed) e . Ability to vote for candidates within parties (personal vote) g . Different ballots used in different constituencies
Comments:
Source: Parliamentary Elections and Election Administration in Denmark
Verified: 2016/10/14
VC002
Question: What are the characteristics of ballots used at national legislative elections (Chamber 2)?
Answer(s):
s . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2015/06/12
VC003
Question: What are the characteristics of ballots used at presidential elections?
Answer(s):
s . Not Applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2015/06/12
VC004
Votes are sorted/counted at
Question: Following the close of the voting, where are the votes first sorted and counted?
Answer:
a . The polling stations
Comments: Part 9
Computation of the Poll in the Nomination District
Counting of the Votes Cast at the Polling Station
68.-(1) When the voting is over, the polling supervisors and the appointed electors, cf. however section 74a, shall count the votes cast at the polling station. The counting is public. The number of votes cast for each party and for each independent candidate shall be counted.
Source: Elections Act, Ch.1, P.9, Art. 68(1).
https://valg.oim.dk/media/16286/consolidated-act-parliament-elections-incl-chapt2-2014.pdf
Verified: 2019/05/27
VC006
Question: Following the sorting and counting, to where are the results first transmitted for consolidation?
Answer(s):
c . District level
Comments: The chairman of the nomination district election committee reports the total number of votes for each party and each independent candidate in the nomination district by telephone to the Ministry of the Interior, after the results from all polling districts have been reported to him or her and the numbers have been added up.
Source: Parliamentary Election Act of Denmark, chapter 1, part 9, art. 70-71
Verified: 2016/10/14
VC008
Question: How are the initial/preliminary polling results transmitted and communicated to the different levels?
Answer(s):
b . By telephone
Comments: Results are reported by telephone to the chairman of the election committee in question. Also, the chairman of the nomination district election committee reports the total number of votes for each party and each independent candidate in the nomination district by telephone to the Ministry of the Interior, after the results from all polling districts have been reported to him or her and the numbers have been added up.
Source: Parliamentary Election Act of Denmark, chapter 1, part 9, art. 70-71
Parliamentary Elections and Election Administration in Denmark, chapter 4, art. 4.3.1
Verified: 2015/06/12
VC009
Question: If the polling results are physically transported, what is transported?
Answer(s):
i . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2015/06/12
VC010
Question: If the polling results are physically transported, what security measures are used?
Answer(s):
k . Not applicable
Comments: Not Applicable
Source:
Verified: 2015/06/12
VC011
When are ballots recounted?
Question: Under what conditions are ballots recounted?
Answer(s):
b . Always recounted d . By request
Comments: Recount in the Nomination District
72.-(1) Not later than on the day after the voting shall the local election committee assemble to undertake the final counting of the votes cast in the nomination district (recount). In nomination districts consisting of more than one municipality, the election committee shall assemble in the constituency municipality. The recount is public.
(2) The local council shall see to it that the poll books, the used electoral registers and poll cards, the ballot papers and the advance voting material are present at the recount. The local council shall keep a copy of the poll books.
Any voter has the right to complain about the election. [...] Requests for recounts are also considered.
Complaints
Any voter in the municipality or the region, respectively, may complain of the election. Complaints must be submitted in writing to the local council or the regional council, respectively, by the weekday after election day at the latest. Complaints are decided at a meeting to be held as soon as possible after expiry of the time-limit for the filing of complaints.
Source: Elections Act, Ch.1, P.9, Art. 72(1-2).
The Parliamentary Electoral System in Denmark, Ch.5, Art. 5.2
Ministry for Economic Affairs and the Interior
https://elections.oim.dk/local-elections/complaints/
Verified: 2019/05/27
VC012
Question: If automatically recounted, what is the trigger?
Answer:
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2015/06/12
VC013
Question: If ballots are recounted by request, who can make the request?
Answer(s):
a . Political parties b . An individual candidate
Comments: Any voter has the right to complain about the election including requests for recounts.
Source: Parliamentary Elections and Election Administration in Denmark
Folketing (Parliamentary) Elections Act, Ch. 1 Art. 88(1)
Verified: 2016/10/14
VC014
Question: If recounted, who conducts the recount?
Answer(s):
i . Other
Comments: According to the Constitution, the Folketing (chamber 1)itself determines the validity of the election of its members. The Folketing is also the sole jidge in matters of eligibility. At a few elections, approval has only been given after extensive examination, including recounts by the Folketing committee of some of the votes. After the January 1984 election, for instance, all advance votes (about 120,000) were submitted to the committee for closer scrutiny and recounting. However, the recount altered neither the distribution of seats not the selection of candidates.
Source: Parliamentary Election Act of Denmark, chapter 1, part 11
Parliamentary Elections and Election Administration in Denmark, chapter 5, art. 5.3
Verified: 2016/10/14
VC017
Question: Is there a legal requirement for the declaration of the officially certified results?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments: Folketing needs to approve.
Source: Anne Birte Pade, Head of Election Unit, Ministry of Interior,
adp(a)im.dk
Klaus Josefsen, Election Unit, Ministry of Interior,
kjo(a)im.dk
Verified: 2016/10/14
VC018
Question: How long after the close of polls is the certified results publicly announced? (if there is no legal requirement enter the average time)
Answer:
a . hours:
Comments: The day after election day, as well as the following day, the mass media publish the final counts with regard to candidate selections. Newspapers and other media get the basic information directly from the individual election committees. Hence, most of the names of (possibly) elected candidates are known in the evening after election day.
When the central computations in the Ministry of Interior are completed - usually on the fifth day after the election - a summary of the election results, primarily containing the overall distribution of votes and seats among parties and candidates, is published.
Source: Parliamentary Elections and Election Administration in Denmark, chapter 5, art.5.4
Verified: 2016/10/14
Media and Elections
ME037
Criteria for allocating free broadcast time
Question: What are the criteria for allocating free broadcast time and/or free printed advertisement space to political parties?
Answer(s):
a . Equal regardless of size of party and previous performance
Comments: "[The] guidelines of the “Danish Radio and Television” (a national public service station) ensure all political parties registered to participate in the elections equal access to pre-election programmes on radio and television. The parties in question (no matter how small) are given equal time free of charge to present their manifestos, etc. to the public. Advertisements by political parties on national Danish television and radio and local Danish television channels are not permitted, but are allowed on commercial radio broadcasting channels."
Source: The Parliamentary Electoral System in Denmark, Section 3.5, pg. 21.
https://www.thedanishparliament.dk/~/media/pdf/publikationer/english/the-parliamentary-system-of-denmark_2011.ashx
Verified: 2019/05/27
ME059
Television debates
Question: Are televised debates between candidates or party representatives normally conducted?
Answer(s):
b . Yes, in legislative elections
Comments:
Source:
NORA: Nordic Journal of Women's Studies, Volume 9, Number 2, 1 October 2001, pp. 107-112
Verified: 2019/05/27
ME062
Blackout period for release of opinion poll results.
Question: What is the blackout period, if any, during which results of pre-election opinion polls may not be released to the public?
Answer:
h . Not applicable
Comments: The conduct and publication of opinion polls are not regulated by law. Consequently, such polls can be carried out and published right up to (or even on) election day.
Source: The Parliamentary Electoral System in Denmark, Section 3.5, pg. 21.
https://www.thedanishparliament.dk/~/media/pdf/publikationer/english/the-parliamentary-system-of-denmark_2011.ashx
Verified: 2019/05/27
ME080
Question: Is there a maximum amount that a political party is permitted to spend on paid advertising during a campaign period?
Answer:
b . No
Comments: 3.5. THE CAMPAIGN The election law does not stipulate rules for the conduct of election campaigns, either as regards the maximum amount of money to be spent or the time periods where campaigning may – or may not – take place.
Source: The Parliamentary Electoral System in Denmark, Section 3.5, pg. 21.
https://www.thedanishparliament.dk/~/media/pdf/publikationer/english/the-parliamentary-system-of-denmark_2011.ashx
Verified: 2019/05/27
Direct Democracy
DD002
Direct Democracy Provisions (National Level)
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Direct Democracy Procedures at the national level?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments: In addition to the referendums specified in the constitution, it is possible to call voluntary and non binding referendums.
Source: The Danish Constitution, Art. 20, 29, 42, 88
Parliamentary Elections Act, Part 12.
Direct Democracy: The International IDEA Handbook (2008) http://www.idea.int/publications/direct_democracy/index.cfm
Verified: 2019/05/27
DD003
Mandatory referendums (national level)
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Mandatory Referendums at the national level?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments: When a Bill has been passed by Parliament, within three weekdays of the final passing of the Bill, one-third of the Members of Parliament can ask the President for a referendum on the Bill. The request must be in writing and signed by the participating Members.
Source: Constitution of Denmark, P.5, Sec.42, SS.1
Direct Democracy: The International IDEA Handbook (2008) http://www.idea.int/publications/direct_democracy/index.cfm
Verified: 2019/05/27
DD004
Optional referendums (national level)
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Optional Referendums at the national level?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments: In addition to the referendums specified in the constitution, it is possible to call voluntary and not binding referendums.
Source: The Danish Constitution, Art. 20, 29, 42, 88
Direct Democracy: The International IDEA Handbook (2008) http://www.idea.int/publications/direct_democracy/index.cfm
Verified: 2019/05/27
DD005
Citizens' Initiatives (national level)
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Citizen’s Initiatives at national level?
Answer:
b . No
Comments:
Source: Direct Democracy: The International IDEA Handbook (2008) http://www.idea.int/publications/direct_democracy/index.cfm
Verified: 2019/05/27
DD006
Agenda Initiatives (national level)
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Agenda Initiatives at national level?
Answer:
b . No
Comments:
Source: Direct Democracy: The International IDEA Handbook (2008) http://www.idea.int/publications/direct_democracy/index.cfm
Verified: 2016/10/14
DD007
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Recalls at national level?
Answer:
b . No
Comments:
Source: Direct Democracy: The International IDEA Handbook (2008) http://www.idea.int/publications/direct_democracy/index.cfm
Verified: 2016/10/14
DD008
Question: What is the legal basis for the administrative requirements for mandatory referendums at the national level? Tick as appropriate and specify the relevant constitutional, legal or regulatory provisions below.
Answer(s):
b . Specific laws/legislation
Comments:
Source: Electoral Law
Verified: 2015/06/12
DD009
Question: What is the legal basis for the administrative requirements for optional referendums at the national level? Tick as appropriate and specify the relevant constitutional, legal or regulatory provisions below.
Answer(s):
b . Specific laws/legislation
Comments:
Source: Electoral Law
Verified: 2015/06/12
DD010
Question: What is the legal basis for the administrative requirements for citizens' initiatives at the national level? Tick as appropriate and specify the relevant constitutional, legal or regulatory provisions below.
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2015/06/12
DD100
Question: What restrictions, if any, are there in relation to signature collection for an agenda initiative?
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2015/06/12
DD101
Question: What restrictions, if any, are there in relation to signature collection for a recall?
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2015/06/12
DD102
Question: What form of checks are undertaken to verify signatures for a referendum?
Answer:
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2015/06/12
DD103
Question: What form of checks are undertaken to verify signatures for a citizens' initiative?
Answer(s):
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2015/06/12
DD104
Question: What form of checks are undertaken to verify signatures for a recall?
Answer:
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2015/06/12
DD105
Question: Who is responsible for checking the signatures?
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2015/06/12
DD011
Question: What is the legal basis for the administrative requirements for agenda initiatives at the national level? Tick as appropriate and specify the relevant constitutional, legal or regulatory provisions below.
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2015/06/12
DD012
Question: What is the legal basis for the administrative requirements for recalls at the national level? Tick as appropriate and specify the relevant constitutional, legal or regulatory provisions below.
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2015/06/12
DD015
Question: Who is responsible for managing the administration of direct democracy mechanisms at the national level?
Answer(s):
e . Other (specify who)
Comments: e) Ministry of Interior
Source:
Verified: 2015/06/12
DD016
Question: Does this agency/department also manage the administration of national elections?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2015/06/12
DD017
Question: Are mandatory referendums currently possible at first tier (regions/states/provinces, etc) authority level?
Answer:
c . No
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2015/06/12
DD018
Question: Are optional referendums currently possible at first tier (regions/states/provinces, etc) authority level?
Answer:
c . No
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2015/06/12
DD019
Question: Are citizens' initiatives currently possible at first tier (regions/states/provinces, etc) authority level?
Answer:
c . No
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2015/06/12
DD020
Question: Are agenda initiatives currently possible at first tier (regions/states/provinces, etc) authority level?
Answer:
c . No
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/11/28
DD021
Question: Are recalls currently possible at first tier (regions/states/provinces, etc) authority level?
Answer:
c . No
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/11/28
DD022
Question: Are mandatory referendums currently possible at local (municipalities/districts/communes, etc) authority level?
Answer:
b . Yes, in some municipalities/districts/communes
Comments: b) There are no formal regulations; provisions for referendums vary from commune to commune.
Source:
Verified: 2006/12/03
DD023
Question: Are optional referendums currently possible at local (municipalities/districts/communes, etc) authority level?
Answer:
b . Yes, in some municipalities/districts/communes
Comments: b) There are no formal regulations; provisions for referendums vary from commune to commune.
Source:
Verified: 2015/06/12
DD024
Question: Are citizens' initiatives currently possible at local (municipalities/districts/communes, etc) authority level?
Answer:
c . No
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/12/01
DD025
Question: Are agenda initiatives currently possible at local (municipalities/districts/communes, etc) authority level?
Answer:
c . No
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/12/01
DD026
Question: Are recalls currently possible at local (municipalities/districts/communes, etc) authority level?
Answer:
c . No
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/12/01
DD027
Question: What are the issues, if any, in relation to which referendums are mandatory at the national level?
Answer(s):
a . Constitutional amendments b . Adoption of international treaties c . Transfer of authority to international bodies j . Other (specify)
Comments: b) Mandatory if not passed by a 5/6 majority in Parliament.
j) Changes of the voting age.
Source: The Danish Constitution, art. 20, 29, 88
Verified: 2015/06/12
DD028
Question: What are the issues, if any, in relation to which referendums are optional at the national level?
Answer(s):
i . Other public policy issues
Comments: i) All issues not excluded in art. 42, sec. 6 in the constitution.
Source: The Danish Constitution, art. 42
Verified: 2015/06/12
DD029
Question: Which issues, if any, are excluded from being the subject of referendums at the national level?
Answer(s):
b . Adoption of international treaties h . Taxes and public expenditure commitments
Comments: b) In general excluded, see art. 42, sec.6, but a law can make a voluntary referendum binding, by combining art. 42 sec. 6 with art. 19.
i) For instance, allotment of Danish citizenship and a few other issues.
Source: The Danish Constitution, art. 42, sec. 6
Verified: 2015/06/12
DD030
Question: Which issues, if any, maybe the subject of sub-national referendums regulated at the national level?
Answer(s):
e . None
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/11/28
DD031
Question: Who can initiate a referendum at the national level?
Answer(s):
f . Other (specify)
Comments: f) 1/3 of the Members of Parliament
Source:
Verified: 2006/11/28
DD032
Question: Who is responsible for drafting the mandatory referendum question?
Answer(s):
a . Government (specify department)
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/11/28
DD033
Question: Who is responsible for drafting the optional referendum question?
Answer(s):
g . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/11/28
DD034
Question: Which of the following, if any, are required to be included in the mandatory referendum question?
Answer(s):
a . The title of the proposal b . The numbers of the articles or paragraphs of the legal instruments to which changes are proposed
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/11/28
DD035
Question: Which of the following, if any, are required to be included in the optional referendum question?
Answer(s):
a . The title of the proposal b . The numbers of the articles or paragraphs of the legal instruments to which changes are proposed
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/11/28
DD036
Question: Which institution(s) decides on the final form of the ballot text for mandatory referendums?
Answer(s):
a . Government
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/11/28
DD037
Question: Which institution(s) decides on the final form of the ballot text for optional referendums?
Answer(s):
a . Government
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/11/28
DD040
Question: What are the requirements for mandatory referendums to pass?
Answer(s):
b . Qualified majority (specify % below)
Comments: b) Majority comprising 40 per cent of the electorate.
Source:
Verified: 2006/11/28
DD041
Question: What are the requirements for optional referendums to pass?
Answer(s):
b . Qualified majority (specify % below)
Comments: b) Majority against the bill comprising 30 per cent of the electorate.
Source:
Verified: 2006/11/28
DD042
Question: In which areas, if any, do regulatory provisions differ between a referendum and a national election? Tick all that apply and specify below in the comments section.
Answer(s):
h . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/11/28
DD043
Question: When is the outcome of a mandatory referendum binding?
Answer:
a . Always
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/11/28
DD044
Question: When is the outcome of an optional referendum binding?
Answer:
a . Always
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/11/28
DD045
Question: Which types of issues can be proposed by citizens using the citizens' initiative process at the national level?
Answer(s):
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/11/28
DD046
Question: Which types of issues can be proposed by citizens using the agenda initiative process at the national level?
Answer(s):
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/11/28
DD047
Question: Which issues, if any, are excluded from being the subject of a citizens' initiative at the national level?
Answer(s):
l . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/11/28
DD048
Question: Which issues, if any, are excluded from being the subject of an agenda initiative at the national level?
Answer(s):
l . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/11/28
DD049
Question: Who may propose the registration of a citizens' initiative? Please specify in the "Comments" section below.
Answer(s):
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/11/28
DD050
Question: Who may propose the registration of an agenda initiative? Please specify in the "Comments" section below.
Answer(s):
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/11/28
DD051
Question: What material is necessary to accompany an application for registration?
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/11/28
DD052
Question: Who determines the title of a citizens' initiative?
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/11/28
DD053
Question: Who determines the title of an agenda initiative?
Answer:
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/11/28
DD054
Question: Which, if any, of the following disqualify a proposed title of an initiative?
Answer(s):
h . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/11/28
DD055
Question: Which services are provided by the agency/department responsible for the administration of direct democracy mechanisms before an initiative can be published?
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/11/28
DD056
Question: Under what circumstances is an initiative checked for constitutionality or legality?
Answer(s):
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/11/28
DD057
Question: If a check of the constitutionality or legality of an initiative takes place, who is responsible for undertaking it?
Answer(s):
f . Other (specify)
Comments: f) Not applicable.
Source:
Verified: 2006/11/28
DD058
Question: If a check of the constitutionality or legality of an initiative takes place, when does this happen?
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/11/28
DD059
Question: Which institutions, if any, are given an opportunity to propose an alternative to proposals contained in a citizens' initiative?
Answer(s):
g . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/11/28
DD060
Question: At which stage in the initiative process, if at all, can alternative proposals be made?
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/11/28
DD061
Question: What happens when there is a valid alternative proposal?
Answer:
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/11/28
DD062
Question: When an initiative proposal and an alternative proposal are put to the vote on the same day, what choices does the voter have?
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/11/28
DD063
Question: Who decides the final ballot text?
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/11/28
DD064
Question: Once an initiative is qualified for the ballot, the vote on it takes place:
Answer:
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/11/28
DD065
Question: Which of the following individuals/positions may be subject to the recall mechanism?
Answer(s):
k . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/11/28
DD066
Question: What are the grounds upon which a recall may be launched?
Answer(s):
g . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/11/28
DD068
Question: If a recall qualifies for the ballot, when is it put to the vote?
Answer:
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/11/28
DD069
Question: When does the election to replace an individual who has been recalled take place?
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/11/28
DD071
Question: Can an individual who is the subject of a recall stand on the ballot for his/her own replacement?
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/11/28
DD076
Question: What is the deadline, if any, for collecting the required number of signatures after a proposal for an abrogative referendum (optional) has been published?
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/11/28
DD077
Question: What is the deadline, if any, for collecting the required number of signatures after a proposal for a rejective referendum (optional) has been published?
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/11/28
DD078
Question: What is the deadline, if any, for collecting the required number of signatures after a proposal for a citizens' initiative has been published?
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/11/28
DD079
Question: What is the deadline, if any, for collecting the required number of signatures after a proposal for an agenda initiative has been published?
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/11/28
DD080
Question: What restrictions, if any, apply in relation to the individuals who can sign the proposal for an abrogative referendum (optional)?
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/11/28
DD081
Question: What restrictions, if any, apply in relation to the individuals who can sign the proposal for a rejective referendum (optional)?
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/11/28
DD082
Question: What restrictions, if any, apply in relation to the individuals who can sign the proposal for a citizens' initiative?
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/11/28
DD083
Question: What restrictions, if any, apply in relation to the individuals who can sign the proposal for an agenda initiative?
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/11/28
DD085
Question: What is the deadline, if any, for collecting the required number of signatures after a proposal for recall has been published?
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/11/28
DD087
Question: Where can proposals for an abrogative referendum (optional) be signed?
Answer(s):
g . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/11/28
DD088
Question: Where can proposals for a rejective referendum (optional) be signed?
Answer(s):
g . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/11/28
DD089
Question: Where can proposals for a citizens' initiative be signed?
Answer(s):
g . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/11/28
DD090
Question: Where can proposals for an agenda initiative be signed?
Answer(s):
g . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/11/28
DD091
Question: Where can proposals for a recall be signed?
Answer(s):
g . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/11/28
DD092
Question: What information must signatories provide when signing the proposal for an abrogative referendum (optional)?
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/11/28
DD093
Question: What information must signatories provide when signing the proposal for a rejective referendum (optional)?
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/11/28
DD094
Question: What information must signatories provide when signing the proposal for a citizens' initiative?
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/11/28
DD095
Question: What information must signatories provide when signing the proposal for an agenda initiative?
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/11/28
DD096
Question: What information must signatories provide when signing the proposal for a recall?
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/11/28
DD097
Question: What restrictions, if any, are there in relation to signature collection for an abrogative referendum (optional)?
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/11/28
DD098
Question: What restrictions, if any, are there in relation to signature collection for a rejective referendum (optional)?
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/11/28
DD099
Question: What restrictions, if any, are there in relation to signature collection for a citizens' initiative?
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/11/28
DD129
Question: Are the results of referenda always binding, never binding or sometimes binding?
Answer:
b . Sometimes binding
Comments: Turnout quotas
"A turnout quota is a rule specifying that the result of a referendum is not valid, binding or affirmative unless at least a minimum percentage of those entitled to vote in the referendum actually vote or unless the votes cast amount to a certain percentage of those entitled to vote. Turnout quotas exist in many jurisdictions. In Denmark, for example, referendums on constitutional change require approval by a majority of votes cast and at least 40 per cent of the electorate. Turnout quotas can prevent intense minorities (small groups who care very strongly about an issue, and who are therefore highly motivated to vote) from imposing their will on silent majorities (who, feeling less passionate about the issue, are less inclined to vote). As such, turnout quotas may increase the legitimacy of the result. However, a very high turnout quota (e.g. above 50 per cent) may make it unduly difficult to change the status quo."
Source: Direct Democracy: The International IDEA Handbook (2008), pg. 17-18. https://www.idea.int/sites/default/files/publications/direct-democracy-primer.pdf
Verified: 2019/05/27
DD130
Question: Are the types of issues to vote upon in a referendum constitutional changes only, other issues only or both constitutional and other issues?
Answer:
c . Both constitutional and other issues
Comments:
Source: Direct Democracy: The International IDEA Handbook (2008) http://www.idea.int/publications/direct_democracy/index.cfm
Verified: 2016/10/14
DD131
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Direct Democracy at sub-national levels (regional or local)?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments:
Source: Direct Democracy: The International IDEA Handbook (2008) http://www.idea.int/publications/direct_democracy/index.cfm
Verified: 2016/10/14
Voting Operations
VO002
Question: Is there a code of conduct for election officials?
Answer:
b . No
Comments: The municipality has the task of ensuring that polling officers are duly informed about their tasks and obligations in connection with the poll and ensuing count of the votes. Usually, written instructions are handed out or sent to each polling offical prior to the election.
Source: Parliamentary Elections and Election Administration in Denmark
Verified: 2016/10/14
VO003
Electors vote at
Question: Where can electors vote?
Answer(s):
a . At a specified polling station in the locality where they are registered at national elections
Comments: Voters are not allowed to vote at polling stations other than the one where they are on the electoral register.
Source: Parliamentary Election Act of Denmark, Ch.1, P.7, Art. 45 (1)
Verified: 2019/05/27
VO004
Voting outside the country is permitted for
Question: Who can vote from outside the country?
Answer(s):
b . Citizens residing outside the country c . Citizens outside the country (including those on vacation) d . Members of the armed forces f . Diplomatic staff g . Other
Comments: b) Danish voters living abroad as well as Danish Voters temporarily abroad can cast an advance vote at any Danish dipolmatic or consular mission.
g) Danish sailors and passengers on board Danish ships in foreign waters and persons employed at Danish off-shore installations may vote in advance on board the ship at the off-shore installation.
Source: Parliamentary Election Act of Denmark, Ch.1, P.8, Art.58(1)
Parliamentary Elections and Election Administration in Denmark, Ch.4, Art. 2(2)
Verified: 2019/05/27
VO005
Locations for voting outside of the country
Question: If voting outside the country is permitted, at what places?
Answer(s):
a . Embassies b . Consulates c . Special polling stations e . By mail f . Other
Comments: c) Advance voting abroad can take place with a "voter receiver" appointment for particular purposes by the Ministry of the Interior (mainly used to serve Danish military personnel abroad, e.g. as members of UN peacekeeping forces)
f)Danish sailors serving on Danish ships in foreign waters - and Danish passengers as well - may also vote on board the ship. The ship's master collects these votes.
Postal voting abroad
"If you are abroad and so prevented from voting in Denmark on election day, you may vote by post at a Danish Embassy or Consulate abroad. It is, however, a condition that you are registered in the electoral register. There is no deadline for when you must have given your vote abroad for it to be counted, but postal votes must be given in sufficient time before election day for it to reach your former municipality of residence before the voting on election day starts at 9 o’clock. You must remember to bring identification, i.e. passport, driving licence or medical card."
Source: Parliamentary Election Act of Denmark, Ch.1, P.8, Art.58(1)
Parliamentary Elections and Election Administration in Denmark, chapter 4, art. 2(2)
http://fae.um.dk/en/travel-and-residence/danish-citizens-right-to-vote-from-abroad/
Verified: 2019/05/27
VO006
Question: Can people vote in advance of the designated national election day(s)?
Answer:
b . Yes
Comments:
Source: Parliamentary Election Act of Denmark, chapter 1, part 8, art.53-56
Parliamentary Elections and Election Administration in Denmark, chapter 4, art. 2(1)
Verified: 2015/06/11
VO007
Question: If electors can vote in advance of the designated national election day(s), how may they do so?
Answer(s):
a . At special advance polling centers e . Other
Comments: A special voting procedure is available for voters unable to appear in person at their polling stations during voting hours.
Advance voting in prisions, hospitals ect is conducted by the institution itself. The municipalities are in charge of advance voting in local national registration offices, in nursing homes ect and in the voters' private homes (Voters who live in private homes, but who becuase of illness and the like are unable to appear at their polling station, can cast an advance vote in their home)
Advance voting must take place within three weeks before an election but two-week-days before election day.
Source: Parliamentary Election Act of Denmark, chapter 1, part 8, art.53-56
Parliamentary Elections and Election Administration in Denmark, chapter 4, art. 2(1)
Verified: 2016/10/14
VO008
Question: If electors can vote in advance of the designated national election day(s), specify who:
Answer(s):
a . Everyone
Comments: a)Any voter who is prevented from attending the polls on election day may vote in advance at any national registration office in Denmark.
Voters who live in private homes, but who because of illness and the like are unable to appear at their polling station, can cast an advancevote in their home, provided they have applied for this at least 12 days before election day at the local national registration office.
Source: Parliamentary Election Act of Denmark, chapter 1, part 8, art 53-56
Parliamentary Elections and Election Administration in Denmark, chapter 4, art. 2(1)
Verified: 2016/10/14
VO009
Question: Is there a maximum allowable voter capacity of a polling station for the national elections?
Answer:
b . No
Comments: The number of voters per polling district averages about 2,000, ranging from 20 (on a small island) to 20, 000.
Source: Parliamentary Elections and Election Administration in Denmark
Verified: 2015/06/11
VO011
Voting method
Question: How do electors cast their votes?
Answer(s):
a . Manually marking of ballots
Comments: On the ballot paper, the voter enters a cross against the name of a party or the name of a candidate.
Source: Parliamentary Election Act of Denmark, Ch.1, P.7, Art. 48 (1)
Verified: 2019/05/27
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