Greenland will form a new government following citizens voting to pursue a cautious path to independence, rejecting U.S. President Donald Trump’s offer to buy the country.
The pro-business Demokraatit — which hopes to stimulate the economy of the region ahead of independence from Denmark — took close to 30% of the total tally, more than three times since four years ago and disrupting a political establishment dominated for decades by centrist-left forces. “75% of the voters embraced a practical line of reasoning—no independence until economic security,” said Rasmus Leander Nielsen of the University of Greenland.
Greenland remains economically dependent on Denmark and gets nearly $600 million in grants every year. The new government must also manage U.S. ties in the wake of Trump’s assertion that he is hell-bent on buying the semi-autonomous territory “one way or another.”
Demokraatit, which ran on a platform of fishing, mining, and tourism, captured 10 of parliament’s 31 seats. The party then needs coalition allies to reach a 16-seat majority. Analysts predict alliances with Inuit Ataqatigiit and possibly Atassut, but not Naleraq, which ran on unconditional independence.
Voters did more than put economic concerns first; they also shunned Trump’s meddling. It is stability that many desire, fearing that rushing into independence would bring greater U.S. political meddling.
Demokraatit candidate Jens-Frederik Nielsen opposed Trump, declaring, “Greenland is not a house you can buy.” His party will engage in coalition negotiations over the next few days.
As coalition negotiations continue, Greenland’s leaders have to stimulate economic development, diplomatic relations, and eventual independence without excessive outside pressure.