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Every six months, the Council of the European Union is chaired by a member state in turn. On January 1, 2012, it was therefore Denmark's turn to assume the role of President of the Council of the European Union, succeeding Poland. In June 2012, Cyprus will assume this role thereafter.
By taking the head of the European Union, Denmark must assert itself in an attempt to resolve the crisis in the euro zone of which it is not part.
“This kingdom of 5.6 million people finds itself on the front line in the face of this crisis, although the importance of the rotating presidency has waned since there was a permanent president of the European Council.
In addition, Denmark risks being marginalized like the other nine EU states, including Britain, which have not adopted the single currency. Especially since London widened the gap between the euro zone and its satellite countries by leaving the negotiating table on December 9 because it refused to modify the treaties. "
Source: The world
Let's learn more about Denmark's place in the European Union and the challenges that lie ahead as President of the Council of the European Union.
Goals
At the end of the activities, the student will be able to:
- give general information about Denmark;
- explain the situation of Denmark within Europe;
- compare the role of the permanent president of the Council of the European Union and the role of the rotating presidency of the member states;
- list the challenges facing the Danish Presidency of the Council of the European Union.
Suggested Activities
ACTIVITY 1: Denmark in the European Union
Using the links selected in the "Find out more" section and supplementing if necessary with some documentary research, invite the pupils to learn more about Denmark and its place in the European Union.
Why does Denmark risk having difficulty asserting itself in the eurozone crisis?
What is the role of the permanent president of the European Council in relation to the rotating presidency of the member states?
ACTIVITY 2: Its challenges
During the six months of its presidency, Denmark faces many challenges. Which are they?
Students will be able to use the links selected at the bottom of the sheet again and complete by searching for press articles on the subject.
More about the magazine
Denmark takes over EU Presidency
Article from Le Monde of January 1, 2012
Danish Presidency of the Council of the European Union (Jan - Jun. 2012)
Site All Europe
Presentation of Denmark
Ministry of Foreign Affairs website
