TV 2 Denmark and UNICEF are once again inviting Danish kids across the country to speak up, as the Children’s New Year’s Speech returns for a third time on January 1, 2026. Kids under 18 can now submit their ideas for this year’s message.
A Platform for the Nation’s Young Voices
Danish broadcaster TV 2, in partnership with UNICEF Denmark, is bringing back “Børnenes Nytårstale,” or the Children’s New Year’s Speech, for its third edition. The initiative invites Danish kids under the age of 18 from across Denmark to submit their own version of a New Year’s address, expressing their views on topics important to them, from climate change and world conflicts to social media use and education. The selected speech will be aired nationally on January 1, 2026, just before the Prime Minister’s traditional New Year’s address on TV 2. Danish kids can share their thoughts.
In addition to the chosen primary speech, several other submissions will also be showcased on the popular streaming platform, TV 2 Play. More children can take part.
A Tradition Built on Inclusion
The Children’s New Year’s Speech was introduced as a way to elevate young voices and encourage participation in democratic discussions. Since its inception, it has gained national attention, particularly for its positioning just before the prime minister speaks—giving Danish kids a symbolic seat at the table of public discourse.
The 2025 speech, delivered by 15-year-old Linnea Minghetti from Stevns, emphasized the importance of role models and youth participation in solving global issues. It touched on pressing concerns such as climate change and the evolving responsibilities of the younger generation in building the future.
This speech captivated both viewers and political commentators, reaffirming the importance of including children’s perspectives in national and global conversations.
Children Are the Present, Not Just the Future
TV 2 and UNICEF Denmark underline that young people should not only be considered future voters and leaders; they are already stakeholders in society. The initiative aims to empower children with the confidence and tools to speak up, especially on issues that deeply matter to them.
To support this, UNICEF Denmark has rolled out educational resources for schools, particularly targeting students in upper elementary and middle school levels. The curriculum is designed to help students craft and deliver speeches, with guidance on both content and public speaking. Additionally, libraries across Denmark will collaborate with schools, providing platforms for students to write and present their thoughts.
Submission Open Until December 1
Submissions for the 2026 Children’s New Year’s Speech are open through December 1, 2025. The format is flexible, allowing room for creativity and diverse viewpoints. The chosen speaker will be announced in December and will record their message for broadcast on New Year’s Day.
This effort is part of a broader mission by TV 2 to unite the Danish population through shared experiences and collective dialogue. According to the network, over 80 percent of Danes interact with TV 2 content weekly, either through traditional broadcasting or digital platforms like TV 2 Play and tv2.dk.
A Growing Cultural Landmark
Though still relatively new, the Children’s New Year’s Speech is fast becoming a staple in Denmark’s annual traditions. With Denmark’s strong commitment to democratic values and education, the initiative fits naturally into the ethos of the country and the priorities of both TV 2 and UNICEF Denmark.
Viewership numbers for the 2025 speech showed that more than 900,000 people tuned in to watch, and online engagement afterward recorded over 20,000 shares and comments, signaling significant interest and emotional impact.
Looking Ahead to 2026
As the world continues to face global challenges, Denmark is reinforcing the message that solutions cannot be forged without younger generations. By giving Danish kids their own national platform each year, the country sends a powerful signal: their voices matter now, not just later.
The success of the Children’s New Year’s Speech shows the potential of media and public service broadcasting to foster inclusion, spark national conversations, and create traditions that honor all voices in society.
Danish kids and teens interested in submitting their speech can find guidelines and more information at UNICEF Denmark’s official website.
