Denmark - a welfare state
The Danish welfare system is rooted in a longstanding tradition of solidarity with the weakest members of society.
This safety net is financed by a tax system based on the principle that those who earn most contribute most to the common cause.
Safety net
However, equal access to social help and health care is not an absolute given. As with every other aspect of our modern individualised world, the Danish welfare model is undergoing change. This trend is reflected, for instance, in the increasing number of private alternatives to government-financed home care and hospital treatment for people who can afford to pay and are willing to do so.
However, the principle that everyone who needs help is afforded assistance remains the pillar of the Danish welfare society. And with a residence permit, an address in Denmark, a civil registration number (CPR) and a tax card, you contribute to the Danish welfare society and are thus entitled to its services.
A labour market managed by agreements
The Danish labour market also reflects this solidarity in what is referred to as ‘the Danish model’. This model, which forms the functional basis for the labour market, is unique to Denmark and means that working conditions and salaries are regulated through voluntary agreements between employer and employee organisations.
Integration
As a newcomer to Denmark, you also become a member of Danish society. Integration in a foreign country is always daunting. Danish workplaces and trade unions work to help employees from abroad to settle and to encourage them to stay in Denmark. But you will get the most out of Danish society and feel at home faster if you take personal responsibility, learn about the culture and, in particular, quickly gain a working knowledge of the Danish language.
If you are looking for a job in Denmark in these areas
- care of the elderly, sick and disabled
- children and young people
- catering and cleaning services
- technical and maintenance services