On Tuesday, March 11th, the inhabitants of Greenland will go to the polls. The dominant issue is the question of greater independence for Greenland among the 40,000 eligible voters on the world's largest island.
Greenland's Independence
A Crucial Issue In recent years, the Greenlandic debate has intensified around the island's future status. Greenland has a long way to go towards full independence, which is clearly reflected in the election campaigns where the question of self-governance and national identity takes center stage. According to SVT, the election campaigns highlight the dream of greater autonomy, where parties discuss everything from economic independence to reducing dependence on Denmark.
Historical Ties to Denmark
Greenland's connection to Denmark goes back a long way. The relationship is characterized by historical, cultural, economic and political bonds. Denmark has long had a paternal role towards Greenland, which has shaped the island's identity and contributed complexity to Greenland's pursuit of independence. The debate about cutting ties with Denmark is not just a political issue, but also something that changes the long common history.
Greenland's Chilly Relations with Sweden since 2024
Sweden, as chairman of the Nordic Council of Ministers, rejected Greenland's participation in the top meeting in Stockholm in the spring of 2024. This sparked anger from Greenland's Foreign Minister Vivian Motzfeldt, who stated that
it becomes clear who is considered important and who is not
Greenland did not receive an invitation to the Nordic Council's session in Reykjavik in October 2024 either. The Åland Islands and the Faroe Islands were also left out of these two top meetings, which dealt with Nordic cooperation and security policy.
Why is Greenland Important to Trump and US?
In the shadow of an increasingly uncertain international climate, Greenland's strategic location in the Arctic and North Atlantic plays a crucial role for major powers like the USA. Trump's statements since becoming president have sparked reactions not only among the approximately 57,000 inhabitants of Greenland but also in Denmark and the rest of Europe.
In his latest speech to Congress, Trump said:
We need Greenland for national security and even international security, and we're working with everybody involved to try and get it.
The Election's Significance in World Politics
Greenland's election has thus become a symbol of a larger struggle between forces that want to reshape the global balance of power. In a time where world politics faces great challenges - from climate change to economic uncertainty - it is not just a local election, but a decision that can have far-reaching consequences for both the region and the global arena.
Who has the right to vote in Greenland?
To be eligible to vote in the Inatsisartut (Greenlandic Parliament) and Folketing (Danish Parliament) elections, you must:
- be at least 18 years old
- be a Danish citizen
- be permanently resident in Greenland.
Regardless of the outcome, the election will be decisive for how Greenland defines its future as a potential independent state and as a strategic actor in a changing world.
