Denmark has decided to abolish the controversial ‘parenting competency tests’, called FKU (forældrekompetenceundersøgelse) used on Greenlandic families after years of activist campaigns. The tests, criticized for cultural bias against Inuit families, often led to the separation of children from their parents. Greenland, a former Danish colony, still depends on Denmark for foreign and security policies.
This decision comes amidst strained relations after U.S. President Donald Trump suggested buying Greenland. To ease tensions with Nuuk, Denmark announced the tests would no longer be used in cases involving Greenlandic families. A joint statement from both governments declared, “Standardized psychological tests fail to adequately consider Greenlandic culture and language. Therefore, we will abolish their use in these cases.”
Cultural Bias and Family Separation
In 2022, the Danish Institute for Human Rights warned these tests ignored cultural differences, often misrepresenting Greenlandic parents as less capable. This could lead to unjust child removals, with severe consequences for families.
One notable case involved Keira Alexandra Kronvold, an Inuit mother whose newborn was taken just two hours after birth. Protests in Copenhagen and Nuuk followed, prompting Danish Minister Sophie Hæstorp Andersen to address the issue. Andersen later announced a new solution: a specialized team with knowledge of Greenlandic culture and language to assist municipalities. She explained, “Taking a child from their family is a serious action. This solution replaces the tests with culturally competent support, offering peace and safety to Greenlandic families.”
International and Local Reactions
Some suggest the decision was influenced by recent Donald Trump‘s attention. Inuit filmmaker Aka Hansen commented, “This change was long overdue. We must ensure every case is reviewed by an Inuit team to guarantee fair treatment.” Hansen expressed doubt that the change would have happened without Donald Trump Jr.’s recent visit.
In Greenland, Prime Minister Múte Egede criticized Denmark’s colonial past, stating, “If Denmark had treated Greenlanders better, we wouldn’t be debating the island’s future now.” Minister Aqqaluaq B Egede praised the decision, noting it took years to achieve. He also revealed Denmark’s agreement to review past cases impacted by the tests.
Next Steps
Denmark plans to formalize the change with a new law by May 1, 2025. Activists emphasize the importance of reviewing previous cases to ensure justice for all affected Greenlandic families and to prevent similar issues in the future.
