Youngest female mayor in Denmark successfully breaks down old-fashioned prejudices regarding women in politics

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In the European Union, only one out of six mayors is a woman. Though the percentage is rising, even the most progressive European countries still have a very long way to go. In terms of gender equality, Scandinavia is frequently credited with paving the path for greater equality between men and women in various areas.

Women have 46 percent of the seats in Sweden’s Parliament and half of the seats in the government’s cabinet. Similarly, women make up more than 47 percent of legislators in Finland. However, Denmark is the only Nordic country where female representation in parliament has never exceeded 40%.

Although Denmark is considered to be doing fairly well when it comes to closing the gender gap in politics, it still seems to be running behind its Nordic neighbours. Located in the northeastern part of Region Sjælland, the town of Holbæk may not be the first place that comes to your mind when you think of Andersen’s homeland. Holbæk is, however, home to the youngest mayor ever in Denmark, Christina Krzyrosiak Hansen. Being a female leader in politics which is still heavily male-dominated is not easy. Add the ‘young’ component to it and there is bound to be challenges along the way.

During the 2017 elections campaign, Krzyrosiak Hansen was asked by a woman: “Why do we only hear from you politicians during elections?” At that moment, 25-year old Krzyrosiak Hansen promised herself that she would do things differently if she was ever elected as a mayor. Shortly afterwards, the dream became a reality for the young mayor who is still leading her hometown even today. 

“It is a great honour to serve as mayor of Holbæk Municipality. And to be honest, this is one of the wildest things I’ve ever experienced in my life. Now I hope I can go on for four more years, because I think I have a lot more to give. We have more things to achieve. More we can do together, the better. I hope you feel the same way,” Krzyrosiak Hansen stated following her second election win.

Women’s participation in politics at the municipal level has grown at a slower rate than in other areas. In politics, parliaments, and public life, women continue to be underrepresented. Attitudes about female candidates are still largely shaped by deeply ingrained preconceptions, which are frequently used by political opponents to cast doubt on women’s skills.

When asked if she has ever experienced prejudice from others being a young female leader, Krzyrosiak Hansen told Euroman: “A lot. Oh the things I’ve heard. I have been asked several times who came up with an idea that I was presenting. Then I just looked at them: ‘Uh, well, myself.’ I experienced a lot of prejudice about my age in the beginning: Was I experienced enough? Could I say no? So I’ve surprised people sometimes, and they’ve said to me, ‘Wow. You’re kind of tough and determined, aren’t you?”

Without a question, women in positions of leadership inspire other women. It is a wonderful step forward that more women are willing to run for office terms. According to a study by High-Pipper and Comer, women who are represented by a woman are more engaged in politics, get more involved in politics. Furthermore, they also feel more skilled and effective than those who are represented by a man. 

In all policy sectors, gender equality is a fundamental right and a critical component. Women’s political engagement is a necessary condition for achieving gender equality and true democracy.

Photo credit: Majken Soelberg Photography.