Greenland's Prime Minister Mute Egede renewed calls for independence from Denmark in his New Year speech, citing the need to overcome colonial legacies and reshape Greenland's future.
Egede highlighted dissatisfaction with historical Danish policies, including forced birth control in the 20th century, and noted Greenland's self-governance since 2009 allows for an independence vote.
While most of Greenland’s 57,000 residents support independence, debates persist over its economic impact due to reliance on Danish aid and fishing.
Greenland's government rejected U.S. offers to purchase the island, asserting it is "not for sale."
We (Denmark) definitely have made mistakes. But I think Greenland should consider where they'd be, if they weren't part of a Scandinavian country.
We have tried to be considerate and respectful towards Greenland. Most countries are way less considerate and compromising to their minority populations.
Still if they want, they should be allowed full autonomy and independence. But they should know that they will always depend on a foreign power to provide their security. Otherwise Russia or even USA could get the idea that it's an easy extension of their interest sphere.
And despite out mistakes, I believe Denmark will be the best partner for Greenland, because we have a long shared history.
Greenland should probably also be aware that they are not economically in a good position to become independent.
So the losses from not being part of Denmark, would have to be recouped somehow, and since only military bases and mining are the options, it could be very detrimental to the people.
The fact that 57,000 people, living on an undefended frozen land mass that every world power would love to possess, think it’s a good idea to “seek independence” from one of the very few free nations still remaining on this woebegotten planet tells me everything I need to know about the inbreeding that goes on up there.
I think all countries should be allowed to go for independence if they choose to but I'd really suggest Greenland to reconsider. They get a massive amount of expenses sponsored by Denmark compared to how much they pay. It's essentially like having a sugar daddy.
IUD is not sterilisation, it's a reversible procedure and Denmark has historically done much worse. Currently the relations have been good and the axe has been buried so I see it as a win for Greenland to stay as a part of Denmark.
Greenland is part of the Kingdom of Denmark, but not of the EU. They would either have to separately apply for EU membership or ask the Kingdom to do something about it.
As others have pointed out they have valid grievances and good reason to want independence. As a dane I only learned about the non-consensual and secretive implantation of UID’s in women and girls that had been going on a few decades ago. Learning about that and other systemic issues they have dealt with I can not begrudge them wanting independence. Whether they seek it or decide to stay, I hope they have a brighter future ahead of them and that Denmark will support that as best we are able.