Danish People’s Party leader Morten Messerschmidt is advocating for a return to “contract policy” in Danish politics, criticizing the current government for being detached from reality and driven by spreadsheets.

Speaking at Folkemødet, Messerschmidt emphasized the need for predictability and honesty in government, contrasting it with the current administration’s unexpected decisions, such as abolishing public holidays. He stressed the importance of a government that listens to and lives like the Danish people.

The concept of “contract policy” dates back to Anders Fogh Rasmussen’s time as Prime Minister, where election promises formed the basis of the government’s contract with voters. However, subsequent Prime Ministers distanced themselves from this approach, citing the challenges of adhering to fixed policies in a constantly changing world.

Messerschmidt outlined three main priorities for his proposed contract with voters: a new elderly care policy, a focus on rising food prices, and a stricter immigration policy. He emphasized that this contract would ensure opportunities for everyone to become part of Denmark, regardless of their background, while also requiring a commitment to and desire for Denmark.

The Danish People’s Party previously played a significant role in Fogh’s contract policy as a support party from 2001 to 2009. Messerschmidt has recently stated the party’s ambition to join the government as soon as possible, abandoning its previous role as a support party. The party has never been in government before.