Denmark
Once the seat of Viking raiders and later a major north European power, Denmark has evolved into a modern, prosperous nation that is participating in the political and economic integration of Europe. So far, however, the country has opted out of some aspects of the European Union's Maastricht Treaty, including the new joint monetary system.
Prime Minister Anders Fogh Rasmussen, leader of the Venstre (Liberal) Party came to power in November 2001 in coalition with the Conservative Party. He was re-elected in February 2005 after calling early elections as his party rode high in opinion polls and the economy fared well. He is the first Danish Liberal leader to win a second consecutive term.
During his first term, Rasmussen pushed through policies designed to tighten immigration controls and cut taxes. Although it is not part of the coalition, the far-right Danish People's Party has had a strong influence on the anti-immigration stance of Rasmussen's government during its first term. Rasmussen is firmly committed to Europe and stated in his first term that Denmark's four opt-outs are not in the country's best interests. His government has been supportive of the US-led campaign in Iraq. Around 500 Danish troops are stationed there. It has also announced that the Danish military contingent in Afghanistan will double to 360 in 2006.
There are no known threats against expatriates or travelers to Denmark a stable and economically prosperous European country.
While violence is rare in Denmark, a Copenhagen car bomb attack in September 2003 left one man dead. As of mid-2004, no suspects are been identified; police suspect the attack was related to the Denmark's notorious biker gangs . The victim, a well-known former member of the Bandidos motorcycle gang, was on leave from prison to get treatment at the hospital.
Despite the international controversy over the Danish publication of cartoons depicting the Islamic prophet Mohammed, Denmark remains a relatively safe country for both its citizens and international visitors. Anti-US demonstrations occurred on a small scale and were peaceful. Although not recently, a well-known radical group has, on occasion, vandalized an American fast-food chain restaurant and a well-known American convenience store.
Public demonstrations occasionally occur in Copenhagen and other Danish cities and are generally peaceful events. Prior police approval is required for public demonstrations, and police oversight is routinely provided to ensure adequate security for participants and passers-by.
