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Denmark: Size Does Not Matter Denmark is heralded as an example of a state that has managed to withstand the previously held assumption that the smaller member states of the European Union would be brought down to the “lowest common denominator” of EU standards. A social-democratic welfare state with an open economy, Denmark has successfully avoided social-welfare spending cuts and even witnessed an expanding economy despite not joining the euro. This is largely the result of a Danish population that demands transparent policy negotiation in support of European policies that do not leave the state susceptible to economic restrictions that would ultimately lead to decreased spending to their coveted social-welfare framework. In this respect, Denmark serves as a proponent of increased efficiency in the European Union through such measures as increased transparency, better division and division of competence within the EU, and the future implementation of a Constitution for European Citizens. Denmark also maintains its leadership position in setting the agenda for environmental and gender equality concerns. While the Danish economy is currently strong, concerns are growing around the practicality of joining the euro, as