Denmark is not exactly a global power center, but the former leader of the small, tidy nation is about to become a major player on the world’s diplomatic stage. Anders Fogh Rasmussen takes over as NATO’s Secretary-General on Aug. 1 after serving as Denmark’s Prime Minister. The popular center-right leader takes the reins as the deteriorating war in Afghanistan poses a serious test for the 60-year-old NATO alliance, which is managing the conflict. Rasmussen, 56, spent eight years in Copenhagen’s top office, most notably shepherding Denmark through the Muslim cartoon uproar of 2005 — which he called the nation’s greatest crisis since World War II. An avid Facebook user, Rasmussen recently visited a special-needs classroom following an online request from the teacher, a Facebook friend. To be successful in Brussels, he’ll need the support of plenty of real-world allies, as well.
Fast Facts:
• Born Jan. 26, 1953. Politically active from an early age, he started a Young Liberals organization as a teenager. Earned his master’s degree in economics from the University of Arhus in 1978.
• Was first elected to Denmark’s Parliament in 1978, at age 25. Served as Denmark’s Minister of Taxation from 1987-92 and Minister for Economic Affairs from 1990-92. Held a range of top posts within Denmark’s center-right Liberal party.
• Elected Prime Minister in 2001 vowing to cut taxes, lower immigration and thin the government payroll. He largely accomplished these goals and was re-elected twice, in 2005 and 2007. He resigned the post on April 5.
• Disagreeing with most of his nation, he supported the U.S. invasion of Iraq, augmenting the effort with 500 Danish troops. Shortly before the war began in 2003, a protester attacked him in the Danish Parliament, pouring red paint over the Prime Minister and shouting “You have blood on your hands.” The troops have since returned, though Denmark still has 700 fighters under NATO command in Afghanistan.
• His support for the war effort aside, Rasmussen has criticized the U.S. detention of enemy combatants in Guantnamo Bay and secret overseas prisons.
• Guided his country through the 2005 uproar sparked by the publication of cartoons depicting the Prophet Muhammad by a Danish newspaper. He maintained that religions ought to be respected, but refused to meet with diplomats from Muslim nations or apologize on behalf of his country.
• Largely as a result of the cartoon controversy, Turkey opposed his selection as NATO Secretary-General, claiming he would impede support for the alliance from Muslims in Afghanistan and Pakistan. Turkey relented after President Obama personally intervened during April’s NATO summit in Strasbourg, holding a private meeting with Rasmussen and Turkish President Abdullah Gul.
• Has written several books on economics and politics. Enjoys running and cycling
