Greenland, a semi-autonomous territory of Denmark, is preparing for a parliamentary election on March 11, with independence as a central theme following U.S. President Donald Trump’s interest in the island. Since becoming part of Denmark in 1953, Greenland has had the right to hold a referendum on independence since 2009. Many locals view the upcoming election as an opportunity to pursue secession.
The stakes are high as polls indicate a majority of Greenlanders support political and economic independence from their former colonial ruler. However, opinions vary on the timing and potential impact on living standards, given Denmark’s annual financial support of nearly $1 billion to the local economy. Greenland boasts rich but largely untapped resources, including rare earth minerals.
Trump views Greenland’s strategic location as crucial for the U.S. ballistic missile warning system due to its proximity to Europe and North America. Election day on March 11 will see polling stations open from 1100 to 2200 GMT, with the results expected the following day between 0100 and 0300 GMT.
Approximately 40,500 out of Greenland’s 57,000 citizens are eligible to vote, with 27,000 having participated in the last general election in 2021. The 31 seats in Greenland’s parliament require at least 16 for a majority.
Key parties running include the ruling left-leaning socialist Inuit Ataqatigiit (IA), the social democratic Siumut, the left-wing Naleraq, and the social-liberal Demokraatit. Each party holds distinct positions on Greenland’s path to independence, with varying approaches to economic development, resource exploitation, and international relationships. The election outcome will shape the future direction of Greenland as it navigates its relationship with Denmark and potential independence.
Greenland’s Minister of Industry and Raw Minerals, Jens-Frederik Nielsen, envisions an independent Greenland with a free market economy. However, he advises caution in taking any premature actions to protect the people and economy from potential declines in living standards. The Demokraatit party currently holds three seats in parliament, while the centre-right conservative party Atassut, led by Aqqalu Jerimiassen, advocates for unity with the Danish realm and opposes independence without a clear plan, as they believe Greenland is not yet prepared. Atassut has two parliamentary representatives. On the other hand, the newly-formed left-wing Qulleq party, led by Karl Ingemann, pushes for rapid independence and aims for full control of the island’s resources to alleviate social and economic struggles among Greenlanders. (1 euro equals $1.0862)
