Greenland’s center-right opposition has achieved an unexpected victory in the recent general election, a contest heavily influenced by discussions surrounding independence and the commitment of U.S. President Donald Trump to acquire the semi-autonomous territory.
The Democratic Party, which advocates for a gradual transition towards independence from Denmark, garnered approximately 30% of the votes, according to nearly complete results.
“Greenland requires us to unite during this period of significant external interest,” stated party leader Jens-Frederik Nielsen in an interview with local media. “There is a pressing need for cohesion, and we will engage in negotiations with all parties.”
The Democratic Party will now need to collaborate with other political factions to establish a coalition government.
Greenland, the largest island in the world, situated between the Arctic and Atlantic Oceans, has been under Danish control for nearly 300 years, despite being almost 3,000 kilometers (1,860 miles) away.
While Greenland manages its internal affairs, foreign and defense policies are determined in Copenhagen.
Five out of the six principal parties in the election support independence from Copenhagen, although they differ in their proposed timelines for achieving it. The Democratic Party, which saw an increase of over 20% in its vote share compared to 2021, is viewed as a moderate entity regarding independence.
Another opposition group, Naleraq, which aims to initiate the independence process immediately and strengthen ties with the United States, is projected to secure second place with nearly 25% of the vote.
Naleraq’s support surged prior to the election following the decision of one of Greenland’s most prominent young politicians, Aki-Matilda Hoegh-Dam, to leave one of the ruling parties. She finished second in the popular vote, just behind Democratic leader Jens Frederik Nielsen.
“It’s the second-largest party, so they cannot be overlooked,” Nielsen remarked to local reporters. “However, we do not wish to exclude any other parties at this stage.”
The two ruling parties, Inuit Ataqatigiit (IA) and Siumut, are projected to secure third and fourth positions, representing a significant shift for Prime Minister Mute B Egede.
Out of a total population of 57,000, over 40,000 Greenlanders were eligible to participate in the election for 31 Members of Parliament and local government positions. Six political parties were presented on the ballot.
Voting occurred at 72 polling stations distributed across the expansive island.
Maria Ackren from the University of Greenland stated, “The Democrats require a coalition partner to achieve a majority. This could be either Naleraq or Inuit Ataqatigiit. It is now the Democrats’ responsibility to determine their preferred direction.”
Since 2009, Greenland has had the authority to initiate an independence referendum.
While Naleraq advocates for a vote within a few years, Jens-Frederik Nielsen’s party supports a more gradual path toward independence, prioritizing the successful implementation of self-governance first.
Professor Ackren posits that the Democrats’ victory can be attributed to a desire for governmental change among Greenlanders, as well as dissatisfaction with recent fisheries legislation and other domestic matters.
Independence is regarded as the ultimate objective for many Greenlanders; however, they emphasize the necessity of implementing reforms in the economy, healthcare, and other sectors beforehand.
Greenland’s strategic position and untapped mineral resources have particularly attracted the attention of President Trump, who initially proposed purchasing the island during his first term in 2019.
Since resuming office in January, Trump has reiterated his desire to acquire the territory.
“We require Greenland for national security. One way or another, we will obtain it,” he remarked during his recent address to the US Congress.
Leaders from both Greenland and Denmark have consistently rejected his requests.
The leader of the Democrats emphasized the need for Greenland to maintain a measured approach towards the United States. He conveyed to public broadcaster KNR that, despite significant global developments, it is essential for them to unite and present a cohesive stance.