A new report from Digital Hub Denmark reveals a trend for the country's digital sector: Denmark is experiencing a sharp decline in its ability to attract and retain digital talent. This development challenges Danish businesses and threatens the nation’s competitiveness, as digital experts are crucial for driving innovation and growth.
According to the report, which maps the digital talent landscape annually, the inflow of international digital talent into Denmark has decreased significantly. In 2023, approximately 2,400 digital talents arrived in Denmark, while more than 1,850 left the country. This resulted in a net inflow of only 550 professionals, a steep drop from nearly 1,200 in the previous year.
"It is immensely important that we reverse this curve, increase the inflow and strengthen the retention of international digital talent. The jobs of the future are being created in the digital industries. Therefore, access to the right competencies is crucial for the competitiveness of Danish companies,” says Louise del Rosario Jensen, Head of Talent Attraction at Digital Hub Denmark.
Despite a 22% growth in Denmark’s digital talent pool, which now consists of 215,000 professionals, companies are struggling to find the skilled specialists they need. One in two companies trying to recruit IT specialists faces difficulties which impact the companies and the broader economy. Digital talent is particularly important as Denmark looks to develop innovative solutions in sectors like the green transition.
The report also highlights another challenge: the underrepresentation of women in the digital workforce. Although there has been some progress, with women making up 31% of digital talent in Denmark in 2024 (up from 29% in 2021), there is still a long way to go to meet the EU’s gender parity target in the digital workforce by 2030.
The findings from Digital Hub Denmark underscore the urgent need for action to ensure that Denmark remains an attractive destination for global digital talent, a key factor in maintaining the country’s innovative edge and competitiveness on the global stage.