Greenland’s Parliament elections on March 11 has made international headlines since U.S. President Donald Trump expressed interest in buying the partially autonomous territory from Denmark. The interest has put Greenland’s independence movement and strategic significance into the spotlight.
Greenland’s Growing Global Significance
Greenland has drawn global notice in growing steps due to the rich natural endowments found there, like oil, gas, and minerals. The dwindling Arctic ice is also laying bare new marine routes, something that contributes further to the geostrategic position of the island. Trump explicitly claimed Greenland as vital to the United States national defense, informing Congress, “one way or another, we’re going to get it”.
Trump’s Election Influence
Trump’s renewed push has raised foreign interference threats. Fake news of independence was spread on social media, and pro-Trump groups have distributed campaign literature and donations in Nuuk. In response, Greenland’s parliament banned foreign political donations in February, citing threat to sovereignty. Prime Minister Múte B. Egede stated that the election represents a turning point for Greenland’s international relations and ambitions towards independence.
Despite Trump’s pressure, Greenland is not likely to be sold. It has 31 members of parliament, and most are for independence but not American domination. However, an independent Greenland would need new partners, and Egede has indicated it is “open for business,” which means possible U.S. partnerships.
Denmark’s Position
Denmark has welcomed Greenland’s independence right under a 2009 agreement. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen asserts that Greenland is not for sale but shows respect for its choice. Her policy of softness carries the risk, according to some opposition leaders, of pushing Greenland into the U.S. orbit.
Over 80% of the Greenlanders support independence, but barely half of them are concerned about economic sustainability. Greenland has a fragile economy based on fishing and tourism and relies on Danish economic suppor. Expanding the mining sector could make it more independent, but it would require new economic benefactors, perhaps including the United States.
The ultimate election result on March 12 will determine the future government and direction of Greenland towards independence. In case the pro-independence parties gain more power, Greenland can hasten its separation from Denmark and negotiate potential alliances with other nations—including the United States.
