A new role for Henrik Frandsen MP from ALDE Party member Moderaterne as he has been elected Speaker of the Danish Parliament, taking on one of the most important positions in Denmark’s democratic institutions.
Frandsen was elected on 6 October as the Folketing opened its new parliamentary year, succeeding ALDE Party member Venstre’s Søren Gade MP. His election came after the government parties put forward his candidacy earlier this year, and he was elected by a majority of MPs.
The appointment marks a proud moment for a politician who has built a long career in both local and national politics. Frandsen has been a member of the Folketing since 2022 and previously served as chair of Moderaterne’s parliamentary group. He has also served as Minister for Senior Citizens and was mayor of Tønder from 2016 to 2021.
Now, his role changes significantly. As Speaker, Frandsen is responsible for leading proceedings in the Folketing and helping ensure that parliamentary debates are conducted fairly and effectively. He also has responsibility for the Parliament’s internal administration and represents the Folketing in official contexts at home and abroad.
Moderaterne has welcomed the appointment as both a great honour and a great responsibility, praising Frandsen for his commitment to political work, his down-to-earth approach and his respect for colleagues across the political spectrum:
“We know Henrik as a person with both legs firmly planted on the ground, a great commitment and a strong respect for the political work and for those he works with,” the party said, celebrating the appointment and wishing Frandsen well in his new role.
For Moderaterne, it is a significant moment as one of its own takes on the responsibility of leading the work of the Folketing and representing the Parliament as a whole. For the wider liberal family, this brings the number to five Speakers across Europe, with liberals also holding the position in Estonia, Ukraine, the Netherlands and Ireland.
Congratulations to Henrik Frandsen on his new role!