Marie Bjerre, Denmark’s Minister of EU Affairs, was named this year’s Alliance Of Her Women in Politics Champion of the Year.
A driving force behind Denmark’s Presidency of the Council of the EU during an exceptionally turbulent period, facing everything from security challenges and trade tensions to advancing Ukraine’s EU accession, Bjerre has become one of Europe’s most vocal defenders of liberal values and gender equality.
Congratulations on being named the Alliance Of Her’s “Women in Politics Champion of the Year.” How does it feel?
I’m overwhelmed and humbled. Many women have inspired me, and getting the chance to inspire others is just so meaningful. I never would have made it to where I am today if there had not been other women paving the way. If you can’t see it, you can’t believe it.
What change do you want to see for women in politics in the next decade?
I want to see more women participating on equal terms. Because we do have women in politics (not enough of them), but many are still being treated differently just because of our sex.
What is the biggest lesson you took away from the Alliance Of Her programme?
If I had to choose one, it would be defining my values and knowing what I stand for. That has always been my compass, and it became even clearer during the AOH programme. I’ve always been active in politics, but that experience encouraged me to write a note asking myself: What do I believe in? What do I want? I still keep it in a drawer and go back to it from time to time.
Do you mind sharing what you wrote?
I want to be strong in my liberal beliefs and the fight for freedom. I believe everyone should have equal possibilities. I wrote about trust, international outlook and a deep belief in cooperation.
You were initially motivated to run for office during Donald Trump’s first presidency. With misogyny rising across Europe in the wake of his second presidency, what does “Her Power, Our Freedom” mean to you?
When I first ran in 2019, it was during a nationalistic shift and backsliding on liberal values: rule of law, international cooperation and global responsibility. But today, misogyny is a worrying trend. Across Europe, we see a regression in gender equality. In Denmark, we’ve made great progress, but we still haven’t achieved full equality. But some are now insisting we already have. Influencers glamorise traditional roles. These are signs of backsliding. We must empower strong women.
One piece of advice for young women entering politics?
Many men jump in without having all the answers, while women often hold themselves back. Be brave. If not for yourself, then for your sisters, because your action will inspire the next generation of leaders.
Liked this interview? In our new special edition of the Liberal Bulletin marking the 10th Anniversary of the Alliance Of Her, there’s even more exclusive content with the liberal women making a difference.
Read more from the Liberal Bulletin here.