High voter turnout marked Greenland’s legislative elections, seen as pivotal for potential independence amidst Donald Trump’s controversial remarks about the island. The elections focused on issues like health and education while reflecting historical grievances against Denmark. Most political parties support independence, though timelines differ. Concerns about Trump’s interest in Greenland linger, influencing voter sentiment. Despite his claims, a significant majority of Greenlanders oppose the idea of joining the U.S., prioritizing their autonomy and ties with Denmark instead.
High Voter Turnout in Greenland’s Legislative Elections
On Tuesday, Greenlanders flocked to the polls in significant numbers, participating in legislative elections that could pave the way for independence. The vote occurred under the shadow of remarks made by Donald Trump, who has consistently expressed a desire to possess the Arctic island, sometimes in a threatening manner.
In what seems to reflect a potential “Trump effect,” officials reported a robust voter turnout at the sole polling station in Nuuk, the capital of Greenland. The voting period, initially set to conclude at 8 PM (10 PM GMT), was extended by an additional half-hour to ensure that everyone waiting in line could cast their vote.
Trump’s persistent assertions that he could take control of the Danish autonomous territory “one way or another” stirred a range of reactions among the island’s 57,000 inhabitants, from astonishment and hostility to occasional enthusiasm. The current Prime Minister of Greenland, Mute Egede, who heads the Inuit Ataqatigiit (IA, green left) party, voted early in the morning of his 38th birthday, opting to remain silent on the matter.
In a Facebook post the day prior, Egede remarked, “Our country is in the eye of the cyclone. The outside world is watching us closely, and we have recently seen how much they try to influence our country.” The results from this election, which will determine the 31 seats of the Inatsisartut (the local parliament), are anticipated later that night.
The Independence Debate: Perspectives and Challenges
The electoral campaign focused on pressing issues like health, education, and economic growth, alongside discussions about future relations with Denmark, which still retains certain sovereign functions such as diplomacy and defense over the island.
Greenlanders, predominantly Inuit, have historically felt marginalized by their former colonial power, Denmark, which has faced accusations of suppressing local culture and implementing forced sterilizations. This sentiment has been amplified by a recent documentary aired on Danish public television, which claimed Denmark profited greatly from mining on the island, often mischaracterized as a financial liability.
While the majority of Greenlandic political parties advocate for independence, their timelines vary. Nationalists from the Naleraq party push for swift independence, while the outgoing coalition members, IA and Siumut (social democrats), link it to economic developments. The island’s economy largely relies on fishing, which constitutes nearly all exports, alongside an annual aid of approximately 530 million euros from Copenhagen, making up 20% of Greenland’s GDP.
Some independence supporters believe that Greenland could thrive by tapping into its mineral resources. However, the mining sector is still in its infancy, facing significant operational costs. Influencer Qupanuk Olsen, a candidate from Naleraq, expressed optimism, stating, “We are on the brink of a huge change for Greenland’s independence and the struggle for who we are as Inuit,” before casting her vote.
As the elections unfolded, Trump’s earlier suggestions to purchase Greenland resurfaced, causing concern among voters. Trump reiterated his intentions on his Truth Social platform, promising security and prosperity to Greenlanders who might consider joining the United States. A January poll indicated that about 85% of Greenlanders reject this idea.
Voter Anders Martinsen, a 27-year-old tax employee, voiced his frustration, saying, “I’ve had enough of his empty threats.” Another voter, Lars Fredsbo, emphasized, “Keeping our country for ourselves is what matters most to me.” Trump’s comments have undoubtedly influenced the electoral landscape, with Naleraq nationalists viewing American interest as leverage in future negotiations with Denmark. However, such remarks have also tempered enthusiasm for independence, prompting some to prioritize their ties with Copenhagen for the time being.
As analysts observe, Trump’s involvement in the campaign adds to the polarization of the debate but is not expected to sway the final voting results.