Greenland’s Prime Minister, Mute Egede, has reiterated calls for independence from Denmark, asserting that colonial ties must be severed for the island’s future. His remarks coincide with U.S. President-elect Donald Trump’s renewed interest in purchasing the North Atlantic island, a controversial idea first raised in 2019.
Egede’s Call for Self-Determination
In his New Year’s address, Egede emphasized that Greenland’s partnership with Denmark has failed to achieve true equality. “The history and current conditions have shown that our cooperation with the Kingdom of Denmark has not succeeded in creating full equality,” Egede stated, referring to colonial-era practices as “shackles” that must be broken.
Greenland, the world’s largest island with a population of just 57,000, has been a self-governing territory of Denmark since 1979. In 2009, it gained the right to declare independence through a referendum. Egede, leader of the pro-independence Community of the People (IA) party, suggested that such a referendum could align with parliamentary elections scheduled for April.
Historical Grievances Drive the Independence Movement
Support for Greenland’s independence has grown, driven by historical grievances against Danish authorities. Notably, forced contraception campaigns in the 1960s and 1970s remain a painful reminder of past injustices. Egede stressed the importance of building a robust framework for independence.
“It is necessary to take major steps,” he said, highlighting the need for citizen engagement in shaping the path forward.
Economic and Strategic Considerations
Greenland’s geopolitical and economic significance adds complexity to the independence debate. The island is rich in untapped resources, including minerals, oil, and natural gas. It also hosts a major U.S. Air Force base, enhancing its strategic importance. Nuuk, Greenland’s capital, lies closer to New York than Copenhagen.
Despite these advantages, Greenland remains heavily dependent on Danish subsidies, receiving approximately €500 million annually. This reliance poses a significant challenge to full independence.
Trump’s Renewed Interest in Greenland
President-elect Trump’s recent reiteration of interest in purchasing Greenland has drawn international attention. In response, Denmark announced plans to boost defense spending in the region by €1.3 billion. Danish Defence Minister Troels Lund Poulsen called the timing of this decision an “irony of fate.”
Prime Minister Egede, however, firmly dismissed the idea, stating, “Greenland is not for sale and will never be for sale.”
Greenland’s Independence: A Pivotal Moment
Egede’s determined push for independence marks a turning point in Greenland’s political journey. While economic dependence on Denmark remains a hurdle, the growing pro-independence sentiment underscores a desire to redefine Greenland’s future.
As the April elections approach, Greenland’s citizens may play a crucial role in determining whether the island takes the next step toward full sovereignty.