Danish election free from foreign interference but threat remains, expert warns

Denmark’s parliamentary election concluded without evidence of foreign interference, according to the country’s intelligence services, but experts warn the risk of misinformation and disinformation campaigns persists. Danish public broadcaster DR reports that senior researcher Flemming Splidsboel of the Danish Institute for International Studies (DIIS) cautions against complacency, noting that Denmark remains an attractive target for foreign actors.

Intelligence agencies had flagged potential risks of foreign influence early in the campaign, particularly given Denmark’s strong support for Ukraine and the U.S. strategic interest in Greenland. While no direct state-led interference was detected during the election period, Splidsboel emphasizes that foreign actors continue to exploit social media to spread misleading or divisive content.

“We must remain prepared for the fact that there are those out there interested in us,” Splidsboel told DR, highlighting Denmark’s active foreign and security policy as a key factor. He warned that persistent disinformation efforts could deepen political polarization and erode trust in democratic institutions.

“One risk is that we become polarized and pulled into different corners of our political system,” he said. “We may struggle to reach consensus on policy decisions, and we could end up questioning where to turn for reliable information—or which media we can trust.”

The warnings come as Denmark maintains its prominent role in supporting Ukraine and navigating geopolitical tensions in the Arctic region.