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In a political shift that has reshaped Greenland’s electoral landscape, the social-liberal party Demokraatit (Democrats) emerged as the clear winner in the latest parliamentary elections, securing 29.9% of the vote. This result marks a significant moment in Greenland’s history, as for the first time in 46 years, neither of the dominant parties—Siumut nor Inuit Ataqatigiit (IA)—won the majority.
A party focused on economic reform
Demokraatit is known for its pro-business stance, advocating lower taxes, reduced bureaucracy, and support for entrepreneurs and small businesses. Their economic vision includes making it cheaper and easier to start and run businesses in Greenland, fostering a stronger private sector to diversify the economy beyond its reliance on fishing and natural resources.
A core element of their platform is tax relief, especially aimed at low- and middle-income citizens. However, they emphasize that reducing economic inequality is not their primary goal, as long as lower-income groups experience an overall improvement in their financial well-being.
Additionally, Demokraatit promotes a leaner public sector and a more efficient welfare system, ensuring a strong safety net for those who truly need it while reducing unnecessary state intervention.
Jens-Frederik Nielsen: a rising political force
At the helm of Demokraatit is Jens-Frederik Nielsen, a 33-year-old leader who has significantly shaped the party’s success. Nielsen, a social sciences graduate from the University of Greenland, first entered politics as a party consultant. He quickly rose through the ranks, becoming Minister for Industry and Mineral Resources in 2020 and later the party’s leader.
Despite setbacks, including withdrawing Demokraatit from the coalition government in 2021, Nielsen has now emerged as the top vote-getter in Greenland, winning 4,850 personal votes. His leadership skills and pragmatic approach will be crucial as he seeks to form a new coalition government.
The question of independence
Like most Greenlandic parties, Demokraatit supports eventual independence from Denmark, but with a strong focus on gradual and sustainable steps. Their strategy involves strengthening the economy, improving education, and repatriating more governmental responsibilities from Denmark before taking any concrete steps towards sovereignty.
The party insists that every policy decision must contribute to the goal of self-determination. However, they stress that independence must only come when Greenland is economically and politically prepared to sustain itself without financial support from Denmark.
Relations with the USA: Cooperation, not sale
Greenland’s strategic position in the Arctic has long attracted international interest, particularly from the United States. Former U.S. President Donald Trump famously expressed interest in buying Greenland, a proposal that was firmly rejected by Greenlandic politicians, including Demokraatit.
The party maintains that Greenland is not for sale, emphasizing that their focus is on maintaining respectful and beneficial relations with the U.S., particularly regarding security and economic cooperation. While Denmark remains Greenland’s primary international partner, the party acknowledges that the U.S. is an essential strategic ally.
Sustainability and the fishing industry
Greenland’s economy heavily depends on fishing, with the industry generating 5.9 billion DKK (€790 million) in exports in 2023. However, climate change and overfishing are pressing concerns.
Demokraatit aims to implement policies that make fishing more profitable and sustainable, ensuring that Greenland maximizes revenue from its natural resources. Additionally, the party is committed to combating plastic pollution, particularly in the Arctic marine ecosystem, where microplastics pose an increasing environmental threat.
A new direction for Greenland
Demokraatit’s victory signals a new direction for Greenlandic politics. Their pro-business, pragmatic approach to independence, and focus on economic sustainability suggest that the island is moving towards a future of greater self-reliance and modernization. As Jens-Frederik Nielsen begins negotiations to form a new government, Greenlanders will be watching closely to see how the party turns its ambitious platform into concrete policies.
