Greenland has held one of its most closely watched elections in recent history, with the center-right opposition party Demokraatit emerging as the winner. The legislative elections of March 11 were marked by a significant rise in support for nationalist parties favoring the island’s independence from Denmark. The vote also drew global attention following multiple statements from USA President Donald Trump, who has reiterated his desire to annex Greenland.
Demokraatit wins a historic victory
The results have been labeled as a “landslide victory” by analysts, as Demokraatit secured 29.9% of the vote, tripling its support compared to the 2021 elections and securing 10 out of the 31 seats in the Inatsisartut, Greenland’s parliament. The party’s leader, Jens-Frederik Nielsen, expressed gratitude to voters, stating:
“People want change, and we want economic development to finance our welfare. We don’t want independence tomorrow, but we must build a solid foundation for it.”
This stance distinguishes Demokraatit from other parties: while it supports Greenlandic independence, it emphasizes economic readiness before severing ties with Denmark. The party advocates for a leaner public sector, a stronger business environment, and lower living costs for Greenlanders.
Election results and shifts in Parliament
The election saw a reconfiguration of Greenland’s political scene:
- Demokraatit (right-wing, economic liberalism, gradual independence) – 29.9% (10 seats)
- Naleraq (nationalist, immediate independence) – 24.5% (7 seats)
- Inuit Ataqatigiit (IA) (left-wing, independence but cautious) – 20% (6 seats)
- Siumut (social democrats, historically dominant) – 16% (4 seats)
- Atassut (pro-Danish union) – 7% (2 seats)
Compared to the previous election in 2021, Demokraatit has tripled its vote share (from 9.1%), while Naleraq doubled its support. The ruling coalition suffered a heavy defeat, particularly IA, which dropped from 36% to 20%.
Voter turnout rises amid Trump’s influence
The election saw 70.9% voter turnout, an increase from 65.9% in 2021, reflecting heightened political engagement. Analysts suggest that Trump‘s repeated statements about annexing Greenland may have influenced the increased voter participation. A January poll indicated that 85% of Greenlanders oppose joining the United States.
Independence debate and USA interest
Independence was a central theme of the election, particularly as Greenland has drawn increasing international attention. The return of Donald Trump to the White House has renewed interest in Greenland’s strategic position and mineral resources. In 2019 and again few weekes ago, Trump famously suggested buying Greenland from Denmark, a proposal rejected outright by both the Danish and Greenlandic governments. Nonetheless, Greenland’s vast reserves of rare earth minerals and uranium continue to make it geopolitically significant.
Many Greenlanders hold historical grievances against Denmark, accusing it of treating them as second-class citizens and implementing assimilation policies that have weakened Greenlandic culture.
Economic dependency on Denmark remains a key issue
Currently, Greenland receives an annual subsidy of DKK 4.3 billion (EUR 580 million) from Denmark, accounting for nearly half of its budget. Its economy is heavily reliant on fishing, which represents over 90% of exports. Achieving full economic independence remains a challenge, with potential development areas including tourism, mining, and infrastructure investment. Naleraq argues that mineral resources could sustain an independent economy, but the sector remains underdeveloped.
With 80% of Greenland’s landmass covered by ice, its economy is highly dependent on Danish aid, equivalent to 20% of its GDP.
Historical grievances and Greenland’s future
Greenlanders have long accused Denmark of treating them as second-class citizens and suppressing their culture through past assimilation policies. While all major parties advocate for independence, their approaches differ: Naleraq calls for immediate secession, whereas Demokraatit and IA prefer a gradual process linked to economic development.
With 57,000 inhabitants, of whom 90% are Inuit, Greenland faces unique challenges in balancing national aspirations with economic sustainability. Its future will depend on how its next government navigates foreign interests, economic development, and political stability.
Coalition negotiations and the road ahead
As no single party has enough seats to govern alone, coalition negotiations are now underway. Jens-Frederik Nielsen, an ex-Greenlandic badminton champion, has expressed willingness to negotiate with all parties, though a coalition with Naleraq seems unlikely due to their stark ideological differences. More probable partners include IA or Atassut, both of which share elements of Demokraatit’s economic vision.
“We are ready to discuss with all parties to form a strong and stable government, which is more necessary than ever in today’s international context.” Nielsen said.
The coming weeks will determine Greenland’s political course, with major implications for its relationship with Denmark, economic policy, and long-term path toward independence.
