The Danish Parliament is entering its early summer vacation following a lengthy debate, marking the end of a parliamentary year increasingly overshadowed by the dominance of the majority government. The traditional closing debate, usually a crucial showdown between the government and the opposition, has lost much of its significance.

The current political landscape, characterized by a majority government for the past two and a half years, has significantly altered the role of Parliament. The legislative body has largely become a rubber stamp for decisions made within ministerial offices, diminishing the impact of political debates. This shift has left opposition parties feeling marginalized and disconnected.

A clear division has emerged between the government and the opposition, creating two distinct “spaces.” The government, led by key figures like Mette Frederiksen, Troels Lund Poulsen, and Lars Løkke Rasmussen, focuses on high-level politics, security matters, international relations, and major policy reforms. Meanwhile, the opposition struggles to stay relevant, often engaging in smaller-scale issues that resonate with specific voter segments.

While the opposition delves into topics like language laws, parliamentary speaker conduct, and climate policy, their efforts often feel like inconsequential academic exercises. The reality is that the government and Parliament operate on different levels, highlighting the stark contrast between being in power and being in the opposition. This situation renders the closing debate largely a formality with little political substance.

The fundamental question facing many opposition parties is how to transition from their current powerless state to a position of influence after the next election. The prospect of remaining in opposition for another four years is daunting for ambitious politicians. Conversely, the allure of being part of a majority government makes the possibility of forming another one highly appealing.

The future direction of parties like SF, the Conservatives, the Social Liberals, and the Liberal Alliance remains uncertain. They must decide whether to adhere to traditional red or blue alliances or embrace the opportunity to join a Social Democratic-led centrist government, escaping the isolation of the opposition. The possibility of majority governments becoming the norm in Denmark raises concerns about the diminishing role of Parliament and the impact on democracy, as crucial decisions are increasingly made behind closed doors.