Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen addressed the nation in a rare recorded speech, warning of increasing hybrid threats amid multiple drone incidents that disrupted Danish airspace. Experts urge open communication to maintain public trust and prevent misinformation as the government faces mounting political pressure.
Drone Activity Sparks National Concerns
Following a string of unexplained drone sightings that led to the temporary shutdown of Danish airspace on several occasions, including over Copenhagen Airport and military facilities, Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen delivered a brief but serious video address to the nation. The seven-minute speech, reminiscent of a New Year’s address, was prompted by intensifying concerns over the vulnerability of Danish infrastructure to hybrid threats.
The Prime Minister stated that Denmark should expect more such incidents moving forward, emphasizing how these incidents expose weaknesses and aim to sow fear and division across the population.
Experts Call for Transparency and Reassurance
Communication experts argue that the government must be forthright with the public. This includes sharing known details as well as acknowledging what remains uncertain. According to cyber threat analysts and strategic communication specialists, withholding information in an attempt to prevent alarm could have the opposite effect by increasing public anxiety and encouraging the spread of misinformation.
The flight disruptions caused by drones have so far led to at least three temporary airspace closures within one week, a highly unusual rate for a country with one of the most stable aviation infrastructures in Europe. During Tuesday’s shutdown alone, five inbound flights to Copenhagen Airport were rerouted, affecting more than 750 passengers.
In this context, the Prime Minister’s effort to frame these drone interruptions as part of a new, enduring security environment was viewed as a step in the right direction by analysts. However, experts also criticized an earlier morning press conference held by Danish authorities, noting that too many journalist inquiries went unanswered, deepening public uncertainty rather than alleviating it.
Differences from Pandemic-Era Communication
Observers have drawn comparisons to Denmark’s communication strategy during the COVID-19 pandemic, a period marked by frequent press briefings and detailed public updates. However, today’s situation differs in critical ways. During the pandemic, the public was called upon to take specific actions to support the state response, such as social distancing and following medical guidelines. In contrast, the hybrid threats now facing Denmark call for public trust in institutions rather than active participation.
Experts suggest that current crisis communication should mirror the British wartime slogan “Keep calm and carry on” promoting a sense of order while clearly informing the population.
Political Unity and the Risk of Division
While Frederiksen emphasized national unity in the face of external threats, her speech also included pointed criticism of opposition parties who labeled the drone incidents and the official response as “humiliating” and “embarrassing.” Recent episodes, such as a drone flying undeterred over a military installation, have intensified political scrutiny of both the Ministry of Defense and domestic intelligence services (PET).
Frederiksen argued that now is not the time for public distrust or internal political conflict. However, critics assert that silencing political debate in the name of unity may backfire, resembling controversial communications strategies seen during the pandemic, when opponents of government measures were often sidelined.
Communication professionals warn that criticism from opposition parties or experts should be acknowledged rather than dismissed. In a democracy, productive debate can help strengthen public resilience during uncertain times.
Moving Forward
Danish authorities remain tight-lipped on whether any foreign actors are suspected in the string of drone intrusions, although cyber and airborne provocations have increased across several European countries in recent months. The Prime Minister declined to name any specific state but confirmed that hybrid attacks, an umbrella term covering cyberattacks, misinformation, and unmanned aerial vehicles, now pose a regular and evolving threat to Danish sovereignty.
As of this week, radar systems across Denmark have been enhanced, and the Danish police have reinforced aerial surveillance over strategic sites. While no one has claimed responsibility for the drone flights, the focus remains on preventing escalation and keeping the public informed – not only to ensure national security but to preserve social cohesion amid rising uncertainty.
