Jørn Henrik Petersen

Jørn Henrik Petersen is a Professor Emeritus at the University of Southern Denmark (SDU), affiliated with the Department of Political Science and Public Management under the Faculty of Business and Social Sciences. He holds academic qualifications including a dr.phil. (1985) and lic.oecon. (1971). His career spans over five decades, with roles such as Prorector (2002–2005), director of the Danish Center for Welfare Studies (2005–2008), and leadership in numerous research institutions and governmental committees.

His research focuses on the history and core values of the Danish welfare state, including its challenges, Christianity’s influence, and historical policy developments. Key projects include Dansk Velfærdshistorie (2008–2014) and studies on elderly welfare and welfare-state legitimacy.

Petersen has authored over 50 books and 500+ academic works, including monographs on welfare-state history and social policy theory. He has advised national and international bodies on welfare, health, and social policy. Awards include the Aarhus University Gold Medal (1970).