Copenhagen

The chairwoman thanks Mai Henriksen, MP for the reception

Participants in Christiansborg Palace, seat of the Danish parliament

Our group in The Copenhagen Opera House

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In 2012, Copenhagen was the destination of the European Women's Circle's international politico-cultural tour. The capital of Denmark, the country currently presiding over the European Parliament, impressed the 22 participants of our tour with its long tradition and maritime flair.

The presence of noticeably many young people contributes to the acitve and open atmosphere of this northern European city. As with previous tours, the chairwoman Daniela Topp-Burghardt had organized a meeting with a female member of parliament.
Mai Hendriksen, MP for the Conservative People's Party and speaker for equal opportunity, gave an extensive talk about the status of women in Denmark. In comparison to Germany, a higher proportion of women joins the workforce, and child care is more readily available. Federally funded parental leave is 9 months, and birth rates are at 1.74 significantly higher than both in Germany and throughout Europe. Still, differences in wages between male and female employees are apparent in Denmark, which prompts the Conservative People's Party to seek complete transparency of wages.

Mai Hendriksen also touched upon the issue of immigrants, especially the danger of a developing parallel society of migrants, if migrants do not learn Danish, which is a necessary prerequisite for entering the job market. This problem is very much apparent among female migrants.

The Conservative People's Party strongly opposes the legalization of drugs, which is promoted by the socialist party. They argue that a legalization will prompt drug abuse among young people.

Following a discussion with Mai Hendriksen, the participants enjoyed a tour of Christiansborg Palace, including the seat of the parliament, the Supreme Court, and the representation chambers of Queen Margrethe II

The extensive cultural program, including Amalienborg Palace, Rosenborg Palace, Frederiksborg Palace, the impressive sculpture collection, the National Museum, the National Gallery, and the well known Opera House, offered the participants detailed insights into the history, culture, and society of Denmark.

Flag Denmark
Denmark

View from the Copenhagen Opera House towards Amalienborg Palace, winter home of the Danish royal family and residence of Queen Margrethe II, and the Marble Church

Art history presentation in the National Gallery of Denmark

Excellent fish dishes inspire our conversation

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