Facts about the Region of Southern Denmark
Explore the generel facts about the Region such as our population and budget.
Map of Region of Southern Denmark
Facts about the Region of Southern Denmark
- Area: 12,256 km2
- Population: 1.2 million
- Population density: 98 residents per km2
- Citizens entitled to vote: 942,000
- Annual budget: DKK 25.6 billion
- Largest local municipality: Odense – population: 196,000
- Smallest local municipality: Fanø – population: 3,300
Close working relationship
The regional authorities’ tasks are to be handled through close working relationships with the new large municipalities – and, in many cases, in collaboration with citizens, knowledge institutions, the business community and organisations. These working relationships will operate in both formal and informal forums.
One such forum is the “Contact Committee”, in which the mayors and the President of the Regional Council are to meet regularly.
However, the Regional Council cannot levy tax. All expenses are to be covered by the State and municipal authorities.
Gateway to Europe
The Region of Southern Denmark is a dynamic growth area with a central geographical location. Not only in relation to the rest of Denmark, but also with regard to Germany, which is Denmark’s biggest trade partner, and the rest of Europe.
The Region is home to Odense University Hospital – one of the largest and most modern hospitals in Scandinavia – whose areas of specialisation include diseases of the heart and major vessels, cancer and microsurgery to reattach fingers, hands, etc. The third largest university in Denmark – the University of Southern Denmark – is also located in the region, with departments in Esbjerg, Kolding, Odense, Sønderborg, Copenhagen and Slagelse.
A number of the companies based in Southern Denmark are famous world-wide, including Linak on the island of Als, Danfoss in Nordborg, Ecco Denmark in Tønder and LEGO in Billund. In addition, the region is the site of a major offshore industry base in Esbjerg.