Greenland is set to cast its votes on Tuesday in a pivotal election that has attracted significant attention due to the recent focus on the territory’s potential independence. This heightened interest follows U.S. President Donald Trump’s expressed desire to acquire Greenland, prompting discussions about the island’s future relationship with Denmark.
Independence debates fueled by U.S. interest
For approximately 300 years, Greenland has been under Danish control, situated nearly 3,000 kilometers (1,860 miles) from Copenhagen. While the territory has local governance over its domestic affairs, Copenhagen retains authority over foreign and defense policy. In this election, five of the six political parties are in favor of independence from Denmark, differing mainly on the timeline for achieving it.
As expert Nauja Bianco notes, “There’s never been a spotlight like this on Greenland before.” The discussion surrounding independence has intensified, particularly due to Trump’s past interest in purchasing the territory, which he first proposed during his initial term in 2019 and has reiterated since taking office again in January.
In a recent address to Congress, Trump stated, “We need Greenland for national security. One way or the other we’re gonna get it,” eliciting applause and laughter among lawmakers, including Vice-President JD Vance. His remarks have resonated deeply with Greenlandic politicians, prompting Prime Minister Mute Egede to respond, “We deserve to be treated with respect and I don’t think the American president has done that lately since he took office.”
Political landscape and election dynamics
The American interest in Greenland has reignited calls for independence, shifting the debate from whether to pursue it to when the independence process should commence. This ambition is not new; it has been decades in the making, especially following revelations of past mistreatment of the Inuit population by Danish authorities. Earlier this year, PM Egede articulated the need to remove “the shackles of colonialism.”
Inuit Ataqatigiit (IA), led by Prime Minister Egede, advocates for a gradual transition toward autonomy, emphasizing the necessity for citizens to feel secure in their lives. Arctic expert Martin Breum believes that Egede’s approach to Trump’s remarks and his condemnation of Denmark’s colonial past could bolster his voter support significantly.
On the other hand, the opposition party Naleraq aims for immediate separation from Denmark, seeking to establish closer defense ties with the U.S. Party leader Pele Broberg expressed confidence, referring to Greenland’s exit from the EU and Brexit, asserting that the territory could be “out of the Danish kingdom in three years.” With the largest candidate pool, Naleraq appears to be gaining traction amid discontent towards Copenhagen.
Contrarily, the center-right Demokraatit party cautions against rushing toward independence, highlighting the need for economic stability before taking such a monumental step. Candidate Justus Hansen remarked, “The economy will have to be much stronger than it is today.” Currently, Greenland’s economy largely depends on fishing, with substantial financial support from Denmark.
Despite the focus on Trump and independence, some local commentators, like newspaper editor Masaana Egede, note that this election should also address pressing issues such as healthcare and social welfare. Polls indicate that nearly 80% of Greenlanders support the pursuit of independence, but a survey shows that half would reconsider their stance if it meant a decline in living standards.
Interestingly, a significant 85% of Greenlanders do not wish to become part of the United States, and many perceive Trump’s interest as a potential threat. Concerns linger about the implications of independence, particularly regarding the risk of another foreign power exerting influence over the territory.
While Greenland’s Self-Rule Act of 2009 affirms its right to self-determination, the path to full independence involves a complex process, including a necessary referendum. Veteran politician Kaj Kleist notes that attaining complete autonomy could take “about 10 to 15 years,” necessitating thorough negotiations with Denmark.
As the election results are anticipated early Wednesday, experts remain skeptical about Greenland achieving independence before Trump’s current term concludes in 2028.