A recent analysis indicates a potential shift in the growth of administrative positions within the Danish state, but progress is slow. According to CEPOS, the first quarter of 2025 saw a reduction of 248 full-time administrative positions, marking the first quarterly decrease since 2017.

While this development is positive, the current pace of reduction is inadequate. At the current rate, it would take over 23 years to return to the recommended administrative levels of 2011. Since 2011, the number of full-time positions in state management and administration has increased by more than 23,000.

The current government has added over 5,000 positions, primarily academics and managers, with approximately 1,800 positions added in 2024 alone, despite public announcements of intended reductions. Bureaucracy continues to grow, indicating a lack of control over administrative expansion.

The author argues that the government’s proposed savings of DKK 5.5 billion on administration by 2030 are insufficient in scope and design, lacking mechanisms to prevent funds saved in one area from being used for new administration elsewhere. Therefore, CEPOS proposes a bureaucracy ceiling to prevent further growth in the number of administrative positions in the state.

This ceiling would require authorities to find corresponding savings elsewhere if they wish to hire more administrators, forcing prioritization. The author contends that a bureaucracy ceiling would enhance transparency by necessitating choices about which tasks are most necessary, leading to a more effective public sector. Prioritizing citizen-centric welfare over administration is crucial for addressing economic challenges and ensuring resources for core welfare, tax cuts, and future investments.

The author concludes by emphasizing the need for decisive action and a government willing to implement a bureaucracy ceiling, instead of postponing decisions and burdening future generations.