ICYE Denmark

Organisation

Dansk ICYE was founded in 1972. Our office is based in Aarhus, Denmark’s second-largest city. We are a small team of paid staff supported by many national volunteers who help run programmes, camps, and cultural activities throughout the year.

Programme

ICYE Denmark offers 6- or 12-month volunteer placements in a wide range of areas, including schools, youth work, social care, and community projects. Most placements are located outside major cities, offering you a chance to experience rural Denmark and local life.

About the country

Denmark is a small Scandinavian country in Northern Europe, made up of the Jutland peninsula and more than 400 islands, with Funen and Zealand being the largest. Despite its size, Denmark has one of the longest coastlines in Europe, with a landscape of gentle hills, forests, lakes, farmland, sandy beaches, and cliffs.

The country is home to around 5.8 million people, with a high standard of living and a strong focus on equality, social welfare, and sustainability. Copenhagen, the capital, is a vibrant city, but Denmark also has charming smaller towns and rural areas that showcase traditional Danish life. Danes are generally reserved at first but warm, friendly, and value trust, openness, and honesty.

Denmark experiences four distinct seasons, with mild summers, crisp autumns, cold winters, and unpredictable springs. Summer days are long, with up to 18 hours of daylight, while winter days can be short and grey. Danes embrace hygge — the art of coziness and comfort — to make the most of indoor winter life.

Danish culture reflects centuries of history, from Viking heritage to modern design, music, theatre, and gastronomy. Danish society is known for its respect for rules, punctuality, environmental awareness, and a pragmatic, egalitarian approach to work and life. English is widely spoken, but Danish is the official language, and learning a few words or phrases will help visitors connect with locals.