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What are the challenges facing Denmark's EU presidency?

Teri Schultz

For the next six months, the Council of the European Union will be led by Denmark, which is taking over from Poland. The rotating position of "president" means shaping the bloc's agenda and acting as an EU representative.

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Denmark says its two top priorities will be a "secure Europe" and a "competitive and green Europe."

Under its plans for a "secure Europe," Denmark is putting Ukraine high on the agenda — both in continuing to support Kyiv militarily against Russia and in bringing Ukraine closer to EU membership.

At the same time, a "secure Europe" also means closing borders more tightly against undocumented migrants.

When it comes to the second Danish priority — a "competitive and green" future — some say the EU has been going backward on environmental protection.

An EU Commission survey last month showed that 85% of respondents consider climate change a serious problem for the world and even, in some member states, the most pressing issue.