Structural Reform in Denmark, 2007-09: Central Reform Processes in a Decentralised Environment

This paper investigates the policy process leading to the rapid and somewhat surprising introduction of a major structural reform in Denmark in 2007. The reform reduced the number of regional and local authorities and changed their responsibilities and financing. The research question is why a reform of this magnitude and scope was introduced in a Scandinavian country at this point in time in spite of previous failures and in spite of likely resistance from actors with vested interests in the existing structure? The article explains the initiation of the reform by a rare opening of a window of opportunity due to a number of contextual factors. Once the window was opened the process changed to one of opportunistic pursuit of institutional and personal interests. Skilful management of the reform process by central actors was important for getting the decision through possible resistance points.