Denmark’s History with the Eyes of a Culturally Aware Expat

For Other Expats and for Locals Who Want to Position Themselves
Internationally

Kronborg: Entrance to the Baltic Sea and the Hanseatic Trade for Nations Outside
Kronborg Castle, strategically located at the entrance to the Øresund Strait, played a crucial
role in controlling access to the Baltic Sea. This control was significant for nations outside
the region wishing to engage in Hanseatic trade, a powerful commercial alliance of Northern
European cities. Kronborg's position allowed Denmark to levy tolls and influence maritime
trade, establishing its importance in international commerce.

Equality during the Middle Ages - A Seafaring Nation

During the Middle Ages, Denmark’s seafaring nature fostered a sense of equality that was
less prevalent in mainland Europe. The extensive coastline and numerous ports facilitated
trade and interaction with other cultures. This maritime focus helped develop a more
egalitarian society, where social mobility was relatively higher compared to the feudal
structures dominating the continent.

The Climate Incentivized Solidarity

Historically, Denmark experienced colder and harsher winters as well as cooler summers.
This climate forced Danes to be more frugal, save, and conserve food for the harsher
months. They relied on root vegetables, grains, dairy, and meat products that could be
preserved for the cold and wet weather. This meant that only those with the genetic ability
to tolerate lactose and gluten thrived. The challenging climate encouraged cooperation and
solidarity among generations and social classes, which was more feasible in a more
ethnically homogeneous society.

Relative Freedom for the Peasantry and Participation in Trade

Compared to mainland Europe, where road customs and tolls restricted movement and
trade, Denmark's sea routes were harder to control through customs. This relative freedom
allowed peasants and lower social classes to participate more actively in trade, contributing
to a more dynamic and inclusive economy. The ease of access to the sea meant that
maritime trade was a viable option for many, promoting economic participation across
different social strata.

The Peaceful Civil “Revolution” and the Union Movement

In Denmark, the period of civil revolution and reform is often associated with the events of
1848, part of a wider revolutionary wave across Europe. The introduction of a new
constitution in 1849 marked a significant turning point, establishing the rule of law and
representative governance.
- **The Establishment of Parliament**: Denmark’s first representative parliament, the
"Rigsdagen," was formed in 1849 with the new constitution. It was a bicameral system
consisting of the Landsting (upper house) and the Folketing (lower house).

- **The First Civil Government**: The first civil government was established in 1848 when
King Frederik VII agreed to create a constitutional monarchy, embracing representative
governance.

Labor Market and Union Influence

- **Development in the 19th Century**: The labor market and union movement in Denmark
were significantly shaped in the latter half of the 19th century. Notable figures like Louis Pio
(1841-1894) played a crucial role in organizing workers and advocating for their rights. In
1871, Pio founded the Danish branch of the International Workingmen’s Association, laying
the groundwork for the labor movement.

- **Strong Labor Unions**: Denmark had a well-organized labor movement with strong
trade unions. These unions were crucial in negotiating better working conditions, wages,
and social benefits for workers.

- **Tripartite Agreements**: The collaboration between the government, employers, and

trade unions (tripartite agreements) became a hallmark of Danish labor relations. These
agreements helped to balance economic growth with social welfare provisions.

Post-World War II Reconstruction

- **Economic Growth**: The aftermath of World War II saw rapid economic growth across
Western Europe, including Denmark. Reconstruction efforts and the Marshall Plan aid from
the United States helped rebuild economies and infrastructure.

- **Industrialization**: Continued industrialization and modernization of the Danish

economy provided the resources needed to expand social programs.

The Scandinavian Welfare and Economic Model: Social Democracy

Denmark's approach to social democracy combines aspects of capitalism with high levels of
social solidarity. The Scandinavian model emphasizes a comprehensive welfare state,
ensuring that citizens have access to essential services like healthcare, education, and social
security.

- **Consensus Culture, Consensus Democracy**: Danish political culture is characterized by

a strong emphasis on consensus. Decision-making processes often involve extensive
dialogue and negotiation, aiming to achieve broad agreement among stakeholders.

The Folk High School Movement’s Significance

The Folk High School movement, inspired by N.F.S. Grundtvig, has played a pivotal role in
Danish education and society.
- **Grundtvig’s “School for Life and Enlightenment”**: Grundtvig envisioned schools that
would educate individuals not just for work but for life, focusing on enlightenment and
personal development. His ideas led to the establishment of folk high schools that
emphasized lifelong learning and civic education. His concept was based on boarding
schools and on teaching less focused on retention of information, tests, grading, and
homework, but more on debates, discussions, storytelling, and group work. This especially
came to prominence during the industrialization period when traditional public school
systems and rote learning were dominant worldwide, thus influencing the Scandinavian
political culture.

Some Information about Janteloven

Janteloven, or the "Law of Jante," is a cultural code that originated in the 1930s,
encapsulated in the works of Danish-Norwegian author Aksel Sandemose. It emphasizes
humility, egalitarianism, and communal success over individual achievements. This mindset
influenced various social programs, educational concepts, and policies, promoting social
cohesion and equity.

- **Educational Goals**: Folk high schools aimed to educate people in agriculture, political
participation, craftsmanship, and religion, promoting a holistic approach to learning.

- **Broad Access and Social Integration**: Folk high schools were accessible to various
social classes and served as meeting places, fostering dialogue and understanding across
different segments of society.

A Social Perspective: A Homogeneous Society

Social research suggests that Denmark’s relative ethnic homogeneity has contributed to a
strong sense of solidarity and a high willingness to pay taxes. Homogeneous societies often
experience higher levels of trust and cooperation, which can facilitate the implementation of
social policies and the maintenance of a comprehensive welfare state.

Relating Historical Aspects to Modern Work Culture

Janteloven: Every Coin Has Two Sides

The concept of Janteloven, or the 'Law of Jante,' profoundly influences Danish culture,
including its work environment. Janteloven emphasizes humility, egalitarianism, and
communal success over individual achievements. This cultural norm encourages
cooperation and discourages standing out, promoting a supportive and collaborative
atmosphere in the workplace.

Sources:
1. [Dagens.dk on Janteloven](https://www.dagens.dk/nyheder/janteloven)
2. [Faktalink on Janteloven](https://faktalink.dk/titelliste/janteloven)
Conflict Avoidance and Indirectness
In Danish work culture, conflicts are often addressed indirectly. Issues are discussed openly
but without targeting specific individuals, aiming to maintain harmony and avoid personal
confrontations. This approach, rooted in Janteloven, can prevent conflicts from escalating
but might also lead to a lack of direct feedback, making it difficult for individuals to
understand how they can improve. Sociologist Henrik Dahl notes that new ideas or
innovations are often met with skepticism, reflecting a collective mindset that can stifle
individual expression.

Sources:
1. [Dagens.dk on Janteloven](https://www.dagens.dk/nyheder/janteloven)
2. [Politiken on Danish Work Culture](https://politiken.dk/debat/art8104192/Vi-skal-
ikke-bare-v%C3%A6re-glade-vi-skal-v%C3%A6re-rasende)

Supportive Environment: Balancing Positivity and Constructive Feedback

Danes are quick to reassure individuals that issues are not solely their fault, emphasizing
shared responsibility. This supportive environment fosters kindness and understanding but
may sometimes obscure the full picture of an issue. Positive feedback is readily given, while
negative feedback tends to be less direct and often learned about indirectly, such as not
being invited to events.

Sources:
1. [Københavns Universitet on Danish Work Culture](https://samf.ku.dk)

Work-Life Balance and Cooperation

Danish culture places a high value on work-life balance, reflected in the workplace by a
general atmosphere of positivity and optimism. This makes work more enjoyable and less
stressful compared to environments where personal attacks and negativity are common.
However, this focus on harmony and balance can lead to slower problem-solving processes,
as discussions and consensus-building take precedence over direct action.

Sources:
1. [Politiken on Work-Life Balance](https://politiken.dk/debat/art8104192/Vi-skal-ikke-
bare-v%C3%A6re-glade-vi-skal-v%C3%A6re-rasende)
2. [Dagens.dk on Janteloven](https://www.dagens.dk/nyheder/janteloven)

Consensus Culture in Meetings

Meetings in Denmark often serve as forums for airing issues and hearing from all
stakeholders rather than for immediate problem-solving. Important matters are frequently
discussed informally during coffee breaks, and smaller teams are encouraged to resolve
issues independently. This consensus-driven approach aligns with the historical emphasis
on egalitarianism and cooperation but can be seen as conflict-avoidant and indirect by those
from cultures with more straightforward communication styles.
Sources:
1. [Faktalink on Danish Work Culture](https://faktalink.dk/titelliste/janteloven)
2. [Københavns Universitet on Danish Work Culture](https://samf.ku.dk)

Conclusion
Denmark's historical development, from its medieval seafaring society to its modern
welfare state, has shaped a unique work culture characterized by egalitarianism, consensus,
and conflict avoidance. The influence of Janteloven, the emphasis on work-life balance, and
the indirect approach to conflict resolution reflect deep-seated cultural values that
prioritize communal harmony and cooperation.

Challenges and Perceptions

While these traits foster a supportive and positive work environment, they also present
challenges in terms of direct communication and rapid problem-solving. In many other
cultures, leaders are expected to be more authoritative and take independent actions,
whereas Danish leaders often consult stakeholders extensively, reflecting a flatter
hierarchy. This approach can sometimes be perceived as a lack of initiative or competence.

Creativity and Trust

Moreover, the lack of direct, constructive criticism can lead to feelings of unrecognized
effort, as some people thrive in environments where competition and candid feedback drive
personal achievements and creativity. In Denmark, creativity is fostered through a sense of
openness, knowledge sharing, and the trust and security that provide a safe space for risk-
taking, even if it does not directly encourage personal achievement.

Benefits of High Trust

On the other hand, higher trust in society results in lower transactional costs, greater
financial solidarity, lower corruption, and a generally more functional, robust internal
economy. Understanding these cultural nuances can help expats and locals alike navigate
and thrive in the Danish workplace. Differences are welcome in Denmark, as long as these
cultural factors are understood and respected, allowing for a richer, more inclusive work
environment.