Deputy Prime Minister (Denmark) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Deputy Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Denmark |
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Incumbent
(Office not in use) since 27 June 2019 |
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| Government of Denmark | |
| Style | Deputy Prime Minister (informal) His/Her Excellency (official) |
| Member of | Cabinet Council of State |
| Reports to | Prime Minister |
| Residence | None |
| Seat | Christiansborg Palace, Copenhagen |
| Appointer | The Monarch on advice of the Prime Minister |
| Term length | No fixed term |
The Deputy Prime Minister of Denmark (called vicestatsminister in Danish) is a special role sometimes held by a minister in the Danish government. This person steps in to help lead the country if the Prime Minister of Denmark is away or unable to do their job.
When the Prime Minister is not available, the Deputy Prime Minister takes over important duties. This includes leading meetings of the Cabinet of Denmark, which is the group of top ministers who make big decisions for the country. They also participate in the Council of State, which is a formal body that advises the Monarch.
What is a Deputy Prime Minister?
The title "Deputy Prime Minister" is often an informal name. It's usually used by news reporters and the public. It describes the minister who is considered second in importance within the government. This person is next in line after the Prime Minister.
Who is Usually Second in Command?
Traditionally, the Minister of Foreign Affairs holds the second most important position in Denmark. This means they are usually the one who would step in if the Prime Minister is absent.
When is the Title Used?
The term vicestatsminister (Deputy Prime Minister) is mainly used when the usual order changes. For example, it might be used if the leader of the second-largest political party in a coalition government is not the Minister of Foreign Affairs. In such cases, that party leader might be called the Deputy Prime Minister.
Sometimes, the leader of the third-largest party might even be called the "2nd Deputy Prime Minister" (2. vicestatsminister). This tradition of having a clear second-in-command goes back many years, at least to 1957.
