Despite a change of government in September 2011, Danish politics have been largely characterised by continuity since the beginning of the economic crisis in 2008, although with an increased emphasis on reforming the welfare state in order to increase growth and create new jobs. A pragmatist turn in domestic and foreign policy priorities across the political spectrum has left economic austerity at centre stage, whereas the promotion of values at home and abroad plays a more marginal role than previously. The Baltic Sea Region (BSR) continues to play a role in Danish foreign policy, with the Danish policy framework for the BSR aiming to enhance co-operation among Baltic Sea states.