Pia Merete Kjærsgaard (born February 23, 1947, in Virum, Denmark) is a prominent Danish politician known for her nationalist and anti-immigration views. She grew up in a working-class family, left school early to train as a personal care assistant, and worked in that field before entering politics. Initially involved with the Social Democrats and later the Progress Party, she became disillusioned with mainstream politics and co-founded the Danish People's Party (DPP) in 1995 after splitting from the Progress Party. As the party's leader from 1995 to 2012, she shaped its platform around strict immigration controls, cultural preservation, welfare chauvinism, and opposition to multiculturalism, emphasizing Danish identity. Her rhetoric often sparked controversy, with critics accusing her of xenophobia and fueling anti-immigrant sentiment, while supporters praised her for defending national sovereignty. Kjærsgaard's political career peaked when the DPP became a significant force in Danish politics, influencing coalition governments without formally joining them. In 2015, she was elected Speaker of the Danish Parliament (Folketing), serving until 2019. She stepped down as DPP leader in 2012, handing over to Morten Messerschmidt, but remained influential. Throughout her career, she has been a vocal critic of the European Union and Islam, authoring an autobiography in 2007 titled 'En af dem' (One of Them). Allegations of inflammatory speech have followed her, including condemnations from human rights groups for statements perceived as discriminatory against immigrants and Muslims, though she has never faced legal convictions. Kjærsgaard retired from active politics in 2019 but continues to comment on public affairs, maintaining connections in nationalist circles.