On Thursday, Denmark could become a temporary member of the UN Security Council when member countries vote in New York. Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen has traveled to the US to support Denmark’s candidacy. “I have a reasonably good feeling because two from our part of the world need to be chosen, and Greece and Denmark are the two countries candidates,” says Løkke Rasmussen. However, he emphasizes that two-thirds of the votes in the General Assembly are required to be elected.
The UN Security Council consists of 15 members, with five being permanent: the US, Russia, China, the UK, and France. The remaining ten members are elected by the UN General Assembly and are rotated regularly. Denmark hopes to be elected and thus have an influence on international decisions on peace and security in 2025 and 2026. Denmark announced its candidacy in 2021 and has since worked diligently to convince other countries to vote for them.
The government has highlighted the impact of climate change on peace and security as a priority focus area. Lars Løkke Rasmussen has stressed that both he and his predecessors have worked to create sympathy for Denmark’s candidacy. Former Foreign Minister Kristian Jensen and later Holger K. Nielsen have traveled as special envoys to advocate for Denmark’s case.
Although Denmark will not become a permanent member, Løkke Rasmussen believes that it will have a significant voice as a temporary member. Temporary members have been given more responsibility in recent years. For example, the Security Council adopted a resolution on a ceasefire in Gaza proposed by the temporary members. “It will be a fantastic opportunity to shape world politics,” says Løkke Rasmussen. He points out that Denmark is known as a pragmatic country that values international institutions and sees itself as a bridge-builder in the Security Council.
In order to be admitted, Denmark must receive two-thirds of the votes cast, which corresponds to 128 votes.