bekendtgørelsen

Bekendtgørelsen is a Danish legal instrument that constitutes subordinate or implementing legislation issued under the authority of a statute passed by the Folketing (the Danish Parliament). The term translates roughly to a public proclamation or regulation and is used for rules that detail, specify, or implement the provisions of a law, or regulate a particular administrative area by a government ministry or agency. Bekendtgørelser are published in Lovtidende, the official gazette, and are accessible online through the Danish legal information portal.

The legal function of a bekendtgørelse is to give practical effect to a law. It creates binding rules for individuals, businesses, and public authorities within its scope. It cannot contradict higher norms, such as the underlying law or constitutional principles, and may also implement European Union requirements when applicable. A bekendtgørelse typically covers administrative procedures, licensing and permit regimes, technical standards, penalties, and compliance mechanisms. Examples include regulations on food safety, environmental standards, or education and labor-market rules.

Publication and entering into force are determined in the text of the regulation, which states the date on which it becomes binding. If no date is specified, it generally takes effect upon publication. Bekendtgørelser can be amended or repealed by later bekendtgørelser or by changes to the parent law. The texts are publicly accessible, ensuring transparency in how laws are applied and regulated in daily administration.