Greenland’s Prime Minister, Mute Egede, emphasized his desire for independence from Denmark during a New Year speech, marking a pivotal moment in discussions about the Arctic island’s future.
Egede’s remarks, following U.S. President-elect Donald Trump’s advocacy for “ownership and control” of Greenland, highlighted the country’s push to strengthen international cooperation and reassert its sovereignty. He stated:
“It is about time we ourselves take a step and shape our future, as well as who we will cooperate closely with or become trading partners with.”
The movement gained momentum due toDanish authorities’ alleged misconduct in the 20th century, including an unintended birth control campaign in the 1960s. Greenland was once a Danish colony until 1953 and now operates independently under Denmark’s jurisdiction.
Egede emphasized that while cooperation with Denmark has not achieved full equality, it is time for Greenland to take the next step toward independence. He stressed that the decision lies with the people of Greenland, though no vote on independence has been scheduled yet.
A majority of Greenland’s population supports independence, but there is debate over timing and potential impacts on living standards. The government has rejected offers from Trump to purchase Greenland in 2019 and again last year, asserting that “Greenland is ours” and will not be sold.
The speech did not mention Trump or the U.S., though Greenland’s capital, Nuuk, is closer to New York than Copenhagen. Despite its wealth of natural resources, Greenland’s economy remains fragile, reliant on fishing and annual grants from Denmark.
Greenland is set to hold parliamentary elections before April 6. The country will need to navigate its path toward independence while balancing economic stability with international relations.
Source: https://www.euractiv.com/section/politics/news/greenlands-leader-steps-up-push-for-independence-from-denmark