Denmark

Denmark is a Nordic country in Northern Europe. It comprises the Jutland peninsula and about 400 islands, with Zealand and Funen among the largest. The capital and largest city is Copenhagen. The population is about 5.8 million. Danish is the official language; English is widely used. Denmark is a constitutional monarchy with a parliamentary democracy. The head of state is the monarch, currently Queen Margrethe II, and the government is led by a prime minister. Denmark is an EU member but uses the Danish krone and has opt-outs on the euro and some justice and defense issues.

Geography and environment: The landscape is mostly flat with a long coastline. The climate is temperate maritime, with mild winters and cool summers. The country has a high standard of living and a strong emphasis on renewable energy, particularly wind power.

History and society: Historically, Denmark emerged as a medieval kingdom and later became a constitutional state in the 19th century. It was occupied by Germany during World War II, and after the war it built a comprehensive welfare state and a social market economy.

Economy: Denmark has a highly developed, open economy. Major sectors include services, manufacturing, and agriculture. Leading industries include pharmaceuticals (Novo Nordisk), shipping (Maersk), and wind technology (Vestas). Denmark trades mainly with Germany, Sweden, and the United States.

Territories: The Kingdom also includes Greenland and the Faroe Islands, autonomous with home rule. They manage most domestic affairs, while Denmark handles defense and foreign affairs.