Birte Weiss, a former minister for the Social Democrats, has died at the age of 84 after a prolonged illness, as confirmed by her son Jakob Weiss. The funeral will take place at Mariakirken in Vesterbro, Copenhagen, although the date has yet to be determined. Weiss was notable for her potential to become the first female Speaker of the Danish Parliament, having narrowly lost a lottery to Ivar Hansen of the Liberal Party in 1998.

Throughout her extensive political career, Weiss left a significant mark, particularly in the area of refugee policy, where she advocated for humanitarian principles. Her contributions to Danish politics and journalism have been widely recognized, underlining her prominent role in shaping the country’s policies. In 2024, she was featured among the '30 women who have made a notable impact on our democracy over the past 100 years', commemorated in a painting by artist Mie Mørkeberg, which now hangs in Christiansborg.

Born on May 1, 1941, during World War II, Weiss pursued a career in journalism in the early 1960s, working with the Social Democratic press. Her dedication to public service and commitment to social justice have inspired many, and her legacy will be remembered through the transformative changes she advocated for in Danish society, particularly concerning refugee policies and women's representation in politics.