Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen has declared her ambition for Denmark’s public sector to become a global frontrunner in the use of artificial intelligence (AI). In a recorded speech delivered at the annual summit of the Kommunernes Landsforening (KL) in Aalborg, Frederiksen outlined the Government’s plan to identify three large-scale AI initiatives for potential implementation before the summer.
“The public sector in Denmark must be world-leading in the use of artificial intelligence,” Frederiksen stated, emphasizing the need to integrate AI to improve efficiency and service quality across government institutions.
AI to streamline administration and enhance public services
According to the Prime Minister, AI technology holds the potential to significantly reduce bureaucratic workload, freeing up valuable human resources for more meaningful tasks.
“This is about how we can use artificial intelligence to make things easier, faster, and better,” she said. “It could be administration. It could be a simple issue of case management. Shift planning. In this way, we can devote our employees’ time to what really matters: relationships.”
Frederiksen’s comments come at a time when governments across Europe are grappling with how best to harness the power of AI while maintaining transparency, ethical standards, and public trust.
Denmark’s digital legacy and AI ambitions
Denmark has long been recognized as a digital pioneer among European nations, often ranking highly in EU digital economy indices. The country’s push toward AI leadership builds on this legacy, positioning its public sector as a potential testing ground for responsible and innovative AI applications.
Experts suggest that successful implementation could include AI tools for hospital scheduling, automated administrative workflows in municipalities, and support systems for public welfare services. These developments could alleviate pressure on an overstretched workforce and improve service delivery for citizens.
EU context and future challenges
Frederiksen’s announcement also aligns with broader European Union efforts to regulate and promote AI through the recently approved AI Act. While the Act aims to ensure safe and ethical use of AI across member states, Denmark appears eager to stay ahead of the curve by actively embracing innovation in the public domain.
Details about the three large-scale projects are expected by summer 2025, following interministerial collaboration and consultation with local authorities and experts.
