New World, New Rules: Exploring the Impact of COVID-19 Responses in Sweden and Denmark

Abstract

The COVID-19 Pandemic presented significant challenges for the Danish and Swedish governments. Despite overarching political and social similarities, these longstanding historical connections between countries did not ensure similar approaches. This thesis argues that while the Danish government’s actions were politically motivated, the Swedish government’s were legalistic. This is demonstrated by their policy-making and interactions with their public health authorities and has broader implications for the public response to pandemic policy. Denmark skirted the boundaries of constitutionality by concentrating executive power, limiting personal freedom, and selectively following their health authority’s advice. Sweden relied on an uncharacteristic strict adherence to their Constitution, soft governance, and upholding personal liberty.