In addition to heading to the polls, many companies and organisations are currently asking: What does the general election mean for us? For the legislation, the committees and the political relationships we have worked with?
A general election does not merely mark a shift in political power. It can also have a direct impact on legislative processes, commission work and political priorities.
For organisations and companies, an election can therefore create both uncertainty – and new opportunities. Ongoing bills, reform plans and political agreements may be changed, delayed or dropped altogether.
Bills lapse
When an election is called in Denmark, the Folketing’s legislative work effectively comes to a halt. Bills that have not yet been passed automatically lapse when the Folketing is dissolved. This also applies to proposals that are far along in the process.
If a new government or a new majority wishes to continue working on a proposal, it must be reintroduced after the election.
For organisations and companies, this may therefore mean having to present messages and arguments again – and re-enter dialogue on refining the bills. This can be a challenge. But it can also be a welcome opportunity if you did not succeed in getting your amendments through before the election.
The key is not simply to reuse your arguments, but to respond to the new situation and adapt them to new political priorities and the new spokespersons’ positions.
The Folketing’s committees are dissolved
The Folketing’s standing committees are dissolved along with the Folketing and are reconstituted after the election. Typically, there will be new members and a changed political balance. This can affect both the pace and direction of the consideration of upcoming bills.
For organisations and companies, this often means that relationships must be rebuilt and that the dialogue on a policy area starts over – even if the issue is familiar.
Commissions continue – but their significance may change
As a rule, commissions, expert committees and working groups appointed by the government continue their work through an election.
However, their significance can change markedly depending on the new government’s political priorities. A new government may choose to change the terms of reference, postpone the work or refrain from following up on the recommendations. For organisations and companies, commission work is therefore not necessarily a guarantee of forthcoming legislation.
Political agreements may be adjusted
Political agreements concluded before an election may be renegotiated or revised afterwards. Broad cross-party agreements often endure across governments, but changed majorities can lead to adjustments in implementation and timelines.
A general election often calls for an adjusted strategy for political advocacy. For organisations and companies, seven factors are particularly relevant:
Are there bills that have not yet been passed? Assess the risk of them lapsing – and prepare your position after the election.
Bills may be reintroduced – but in a new context. Update analyses, consultation responses and arguments.
The election campaign opens a window for visibility. If you have analyses or cases with societal relevance, this may be the time to bring them into play.
New spokespersons and members mean new relationships. It can be beneficial to start the dialogue already during the campaign, when candidates are seeking visibility.
The government platform is a key indicator of upcoming reforms and legislative initiatives. Analyse the implications for your area.
An election creates uncertainty – but also new political windows. Issues that previously lacked support may gain momentum in a new constellation.
Take stock of the new spokespersons’ positions and backgrounds and, in that light, prepare your arguments and messages.
