Borgen season 1 episode 5 Recap and FAQ

Episode Summary

The Prime Minister faces tough decisions around a new bill for gender equality, aiming for 45% women on Danish company boards. Internal cabinet tensions arise, particularly with Pernille Madsen feeling sidelined. Henriette Klitgaard, leading the bill's presentation, faces sexist backlash due to her past as a model. Businessman Joachim Crohne's threat to move his company abroad if the bill passes highlights corporate influence. The revelation of Henriette's falsified CV leads to her resignation, with Pernille Madsen taking her place, showcasing the high stakes and personal costs in politics.

Full Episode S01E05 Recap

### Opening Scene: Prime Minister's Dilemmas - The Prime Minister (PM) admits to lying during their first 100 days. - The PM is questioned about a phone call but refuses to disclose details, indicating political challenges. ### Personal Struggles and Political Machinations - The PM and their spouse discuss their strained relationship, including the lack of intimacy and the loss of a child. - The PM proposes scheduled days for sex, highlighting the strain of political life on personal relationships. ### Gender Equality Bill Debate - The PM and Bent discuss a new bill aiming for 50% women on Danish company boards. Bent finds the proposal drastic, but the PM insists on 45% to allow for uneven board numbers. - The PM views the bill as a political economy initiative, not just about gender equality. - Concerns arise about using force to implement the bill, but the PM remains determined, showing their commitment to the policy. ### Tensions in the Cabinet - Pernille Madsen, the Minister for Social Affairs and Gender Equality, feels sidelined by the bill's introduction through another ministry. - The PM briefs Pernille, suggesting the final bill might differ, but Pernille is left frustrated and uninformed. ### Henriette Klitgaard's Role and Personal Challenges - Henriette Klitgaard, viewed as a hot minister and former model, is responsible for the bill's presentation. Her background and appearance stir discussions and sexist remarks among colleagues and media. - Henriette faces skepticism due to her gender and past as a model, highlighting gender biases in politics. ### The Bill's Press Conference and Backlash - Henriette handles tough questions at the press conference skillfully, defending the bill and addressing gender equality issues. - The PM's decision to have Henriette lead the bill sparks internal conflicts, particularly with Pernille Madsen. ### Personal and Political Intersections - The PM's spouse expresses discomfort with the PM's professional interactions, revealing strains in their marriage due to political life. - Henriette's past modeling career becomes a scandal, leading to media attacks and personal scrutiny. ### The Bill's Political Challenges and Crohne's Threat - Powerful businessman Joachim Crohne threatens to move his company abroad if the bill passes, showcasing the influence of corporate power on politics. - The PM and their team debate the bill's future amidst this significant threat, reflecting the complex intersection of politics, gender issues, and corporate interests. ### Henriette Klitgaard's Downfall - It's revealed that Henriette lied on her CV, which leads to her resignation. This development shows the harsh scrutiny and standards female politicians face. ### Conclusion: Political Compromises and Personal Reflections - The PM appoints Pernille Madsen as the new Minister of Economic Affairs, indicating a strategic political compromise. - The episode ends with the PM reflecting on the challenging balance between personal values, political pressures, and the realities of governance.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main focus of the new bill proposed by the Prime Minister?

The bill aims to ensure 50% (technically 45%) women representation on the boards of Danish companies.

Why does the Prime Minister insist on 45% instead of 50% for women on company boards?

The 45% allows for an uneven number of members on the boards.

Who is responsible for presenting the gender equality bill?

Henriette Klitgaard, a former model and now a minister, is responsible for presenting the bill.

What are the concerns raised by Pernille Madsen regarding the gender equality bill?

Pernille Madsen, the Minister for Social Affairs and Gender Equality, feels sidelined as the bill is introduced through another ministry, not hers.

How does the media perceive Henriette Klitgaard?

Henriette Klitgaard is perceived skeptically due to her past as a model and her appearance, leading to sexist remarks and media scrutiny.

What challenge does Joachim Crohne present to the gender equality bill?

Joachim Crohne, a powerful businessman, threatens to move his company abroad if the bill passes, showcasing corporate influence on politics.

How does the Prime Minister's spouse react to their professional life?

The PM's spouse expresses discomfort and frustration with the PM's professional interactions, indicating strains in their marriage due to political life.

What leads to Henriette Klitgaard's resignation?

Henriette Klitgaard resigns after it is revealed that she lied on her CV, highlighting the intense scrutiny faced by female politicians.

Who replaces Henriette Klitgaard as the Minister of Economic Affairs?

Pernille Madsen replaces Henriette Klitgaard as the Minister of Economic Affairs.

How does the episode portray the balance between personal values and political pressures?

The episode shows the PM grappling with political challenges, corporate threats, and personal relationships, reflecting the complex nature of governance.

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