The Concept of ‘Welfare State’ in Danish Public and Political Debates

The welfare state (velfærdsstat) is a key concept in Danish political debates. Looking from the perspective of today, there is a general agreement that Denmark can be characterized as an advanced welfare state. Most social and political actors put a positive emphasis on the welfare state as representing characteristics and values of Danish society that should be protected against external and internal threats. But some actors voice a more sceptical approach towards the welfare state as representing a threat to economic growth and global competiveness. Across these normative diff erences the last four decades have been characterized by a growing