The Nordic welfare model, long the envy of many across the world seeking an egalitarian utopia, is creaking.
Aging populations have led to politicians across the region chipping away at the generous cradle-to-grave welfare state for years. In Denmark, next week's election could prove a turning point as frustrated voters say: "No more."
Danes, like citizens of other Nordic nations, have largely been happy to shell out some of the highest taxes in the world, seeing them as a price worth paying for universal health care, education and elderly services.