Greenland’s pro-business opposition party, Demokraatit, secured victory in Tuesday’s parliamentary election, which was overshadowed by US President Donald Trump’s renewed interest in taking control of the island.
With all ballots counted, Demokraatit received 29.9% of the vote, a significant rise from 9.1% in 2021. The party, which supports a gradual approach to independence from Denmark, outperformed the opposition Naleraq party, which advocates for swift secession, at 24.5%.
Trump has pushed for Greenland—a semi-autonomous Danish territory—to become part of the US, citing its strategic importance. However, most Greenlanders oppose the idea. The Arctic island, home to 57,000 people, is at the center of growing geopolitical competition due to its natural resources and emerging Arctic shipping routes amid climate change.
“People want change … We want more business to finance our welfare,” said Jens-Frederik Nielsen, leader of Demokraatit. “We don’t want independence tomorrow, we want a good foundation.”
Coalition Talks Underway
With no party securing a clear majority, Nielsen will now seek to form a governing coalition. The ruling Inuit Ataqatigiit party and its partner Siumut, both of which support gradual independence, saw their combined vote share drop to 36%, down from 66.1% in 2021.
Prime Minister Mute Egede acknowledged the results, stating in a Facebook post that he was open to coalition discussions.
Greenland’s Path to Independence
A former Danish colony, Greenland gained self-rule in 1979, but Denmark still controls foreign affairs, defense, and monetary policy, while providing nearly $1 billion annually to support the island’s economy.
Despite having the right to declare full independence through a referendum since 2009, Greenland has refrained from doing so due to concerns over economic stability and maintaining Nordic welfare services like free healthcare and education.
Inuit pride and historical grievances with Denmark were central themes in the election, but Trump’s interest in Greenland amplified calls for sovereignty. In a televised debate before the vote, all five parliamentary party leaders said they did not trust the US president.
US Pressure and Resource Competition
Trump’s past statements—including initially refusing to rule out military force to claim Greenland—have fueled tensions. While he later pledged billions in investment if Greenland joined the US, leaders firmly rejected the idea.
Denmark has reaffirmed that Greenland is not for sale, emphasizing that its future is up to its people.
With rich natural resources, including rare earth minerals critical for high-tech industries, Greenland has drawn global interest. However, harsh weather, environmental concerns, and China’s dominance in the sector have slowed mining efforts.
Naleraq, the pro-independence opposition party, believes US attention strengthens Greenland’s position in negotiations with Denmark. The party aims to bring an independence deal to a vote before the next election in four years.
As Greenland navigates its economic and political future, the election outcome signals a desire for gradual change, balancing self-determination with financial stability.
