Greenland’s Ruling Party Pushes For Independence Vote As US Interest Sparks Debate

Greenland’s ruling Siumut party has promised to hold a vote on independence after the general election next month, ratcheting up the debate over the island’s future as US President Donald Trump talks about wanting to buy it.

This semi-autonomous territory still belongs to the Kingdom of Denmark and has elections scheduled for March 11. Campaign issues include the future of Greenland regarding its independence, ties with the mother country Denmark, and with the US, particularly against the backdrop of Trump’s statements about “getting” the strategically important Arctic island.

Siumut, one of the parties of Greenland’s ruling coalition, says it will rely on a law passed in 2009 to give the island greater autonomy even the ability to negotiate for full independence. Political spokesperson Doris Jensen emphasized that self-governance is necessary for Greenland to have a legitimate role in international negotiations.

“Until our country achieves the status of an independent state, our opportunities to officially participate in negotiations will be limited,” said by Jensen.

Siumut leader Erik Jensen said that the vote for independence may come in the next election period but refused to indicate a date for the same. Greenland has four-year elections.

Despite Trump’s expressed interest, Greenland’s parliament comprises five political parties that have so far rejected becoming part of the US. An opinion poll conducted recently reported that 85% of Greenlanders are opposed to such an idea, while nearly half considered it a threat.

To date, the economy of Greenland has heavily relied on fishing and financial aid from Denmark. However, the Arctic island has vast undiscovered mineral sources. According to Jensen, all decisions made towards independence will require economic and social planning to protect the country’s welfare system.

Presently, Siumut takes 10 of the 31 seats in Greenland’s parliament. On the other hand, the third-party major, Naleraq, also advocates for instant independence from Denmark.