Oct 6, 2025
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Copenhagen Capacity |
Society and living
On 18 November, local elections take place across Denmark – and international citizens’ votes matter.
News archive
The first-ever international election debate took place last week in Copenhagen.
Hosted by Copenhagen Capacity in collaboration with The Copenhagen Post, the mayoral debate in English brought together nine local candidates, including representatives from leading political parties as well as current mayors of Copenhagen.
“Copenhagen has grown significantly thanks to international labour – something the city’s businesses depend on. Now it’s about ensuring that internationals also use their democratic voice,” Overgaard continues.
The fully booked debate offered international residents with voting rights a unique opportunity to engage directly with the city’s mayoral candidates about Copenhagen’s future. Panellists from across the Danish political spectrum shared their views on key issues relevant to international residents - such as jobs, housing and social inclusion - while the audience actively contributed with questions. The lively exchange continued during the reception following the panel debate.
International residents vote at half the rate of locals
Around 100,000 Copenhagen residents are eligible to vote in the local and regional elections. With a population of approximately 667,000, this represents about 15–20%. However, voter turnout among international residents is currently only about half that of Danes.
“One hundred thousand votes is a lot. From previous elections, we know that turnout among foreign citizens is lower than among Danes – in fact, only about 32% of eligible internationals exercise their right to vote. Now we are trying to engage our fellow residents, and we are pleased that politicians are offering such strong support,” says Overgaard.
EU citizens, as well as citizens of Norway, Iceland and the United Kingdom, have the right to vote in municipal and regional elections. In addition, residents from other countries who have lived in Denmark for at least four years are also eligible. Nationally, this adds up to around half a million potential votes.
“The large share of Copenhagen voters without Danish citizenship has long been an overlooked group. That needs to change,” says Asbjørn Overgaard, CEO of Copenhagen Capacity, who initiated and moderated the event.
Watch the video below with the highlights of the event
