Another first time in Denmark... 18. November 2025
Today was a special day. One of those days you probably remember for a long time. Just like back on January 25, 1987, when I was allowed to vote for the first time. I still remember how unpolitical I was, how uncertain. I had absolutely no idea where to put my cross. So I asked the people who mattered to me back then, listened, let them explain, trusted. And then I stood there with my ballot papers in hand, disappeared behind the curtain for the first time, and cast my vote. An exciting moment, yes, an almost ceremonial one.
And today, so many years later, another first time took place: my first municipal and regional election in Denmark.
Once again I had to navigate my way through a political landscape that was initially foreign to me. Once again there were many conversations with people who have become important to me here, and once again I relied on explanations... How does the Danish electoral system actually work, who can you vote for, what do the different ballot papers mean? And of course, that typical searching and researching online that has become the modern election preparation ritual.
That said, I had already gained some experience with municipal politics. In 2019 I stood for election in Germany myself — and was actually elected for five years. Both to the council of my home municipality and to the district council of our district. That time shaped me deeply.
I learned how decisions are made at the local level, how important municipal politics are for people's daily lives, and how much responsibility comes with it. To experience this perspective from the other side of the democratic process, as someone who was elected rather than just voting, has fundamentally changed my view of politics.
This morning it was finally time. On Tuesday, November 18th, between 8 and 8 p.m., voting took place — and I did it.
With my ballot papers in one hand and my husband on the other, I went to the polling station, received my ballot papers, stepped behind the curtain, and cast my votes. Two of them, for two different ballot boxes. It was an uplifting feeling to participate so consciously, to be part of this system that has now become a piece of my new home.
As I left the polling station, I was greeted by a brilliantly blue sky and sunshine. I walked home, felt really good, and felt a little bit more like I belong. Another first time, another step forward in my life in Denmark.
A step that felt all the more meaningful because I know what it means to stand on the other side. Because I know the responsibility that elected representatives carry.
And because today, with my vote, I was able to give people this trust — just as it was once given to me.
