Health councils must represent citizens, not become technocratic strangers

Denmark is introducing 17 new health councils that will fundamentally alter the nation's welfare state. These bodies, set to operate fully from January 1, 2027, are designed to represent citizens' interests rather than becoming exclusive, technocratic institutions. The author, Nicolai Kampmann, a substitute for Region Østdanmark (S) and vice-chairman of Forum - Foreningen for fremtidens folkestyre, expresses concern that these councils might become opaque decision-making arenas. He argues that such a structure risks reducing politicians to mere spectators in processes they do not control. Kampmann also cautions against the potential for these new councils to create a hierarchy among the country's various organizations, establishing an "A-team" and a "B-team." He emphasizes the need for these councils to actively involve and represent all stakeholders, ensuring that decision-making remains democratic and accessible.