Denmark leaves the "economic four", a new era for Europe has begun

Denmark has officially left the so-called "austerity four" economic group of the European Union. This was announced by the country's Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen. According to her, the political and security situation in the world is changing dramatically, and in these conditions Denmark must adopt a new political and financial approach.

Serious challenges facing Europe
As Prime Minister Frederiksen noted, the European Union is currently facing several strategic challenges:
• The war in Ukraine.
• Migration pressure.
• Climate change.
• Geopolitical threats from Russia.

In this situation, Denmark has left its old political position - the "austerity four" that imposes restrictions on budget spending - and has declared that it considers the protection of European security and common economic interests as a priority.

New budget – response to new realities
“Europe must now chart a new course for its development. We need to plan for the future, strengthen security and adopt a flexible budget policy,” Frederiksen stressed.

She added that Denmark, although it is moving away from “austerity” principles, will remain committed to efficient and rational spending in budget negotiations. “Our position against unnecessary spending has not changed,” she said.

What were the “austerity four”?
The European Union’s “austerity four” was the name given to the policy pursued by countries such as Austria, the Netherlands, Sweden and Denmark. They opposed increased spending within the union, especially in the post-pandemic financial assistance packages. These countries demanded a “responsible approach” to the EU budget.

Conclusion: Denmark has entered a new phase in the EU
Mette Frederiksen's statement signals the beginning of a new era in the internal political balance of the European Union. Denmark's focus on security, rearmament and strategic partnership could change the future direction of the EU.

At the same time, it is possible that this decision will also affect the positions of the other members of the "economic four" - Austria, Sweden and the Netherlands. European unity is on the verge of new tests.