Dilemmas of Citizenship and Evolving Civic Activism in Denmark

Abstract

The Danish chapter by Birte Siim and Susi Meret explores dilemmas of citizenship by looking at the ways rightwing populism has been countered by mobilizations against exclusionary and discriminating Danish policies. The theoretical and methodological approach is inspired by scholarly literature reframing citizenship, democracy, and social movement theory to reflect critically upon the dilemmas of differentiated citizenship, civic activism, and participation in Danish politics and society. The analysis focuses on the goals, strategies, and motivations of diverse civil society associations, pro-migrant and refugee groups, and self-organized movements actively fighting against discrimination, racism, and othering. Key questions are: Who are the actors involved? What are their claims? What forms of activism do they practice? How do they cooperate? What are the perspectives of these movements and what are the results of their activities?