Greenland (Kalaallit Nunaat) has officially entered a new political era. Following the March 11 election, Jens-Frederik Nielsen—the 33-year-old leader of Demokraatit—was sworn in today as the head of the country’s new government (Naalakkersuisut), leading a historic four-party coalition.
The broad alliance, composed of Demokraatit, Inuit Ataqatigiit (IA), Siumut, and Atassut, was approved by Greenland’s parliament (Inatsisartut) and represents 75% of the electorate. This marks one of the most extensive governing coalitions in Greenlandic political history.
A decisive win for Demokraatit
Jens-Frederik Nielsen emerged as the undisputed winner of the March vote, earning 4,850 personal votes—more than any other candidate. His party, Demokraatit, secured roughly one-third of all ballots cast.
“It has never been more important to have stable governance in our country. That’s why I’m pleased we’ve formed a broad coalition that represents 75 percent of voters,” Nielsen said in his inaugural address.
He also announced the members of his cabinet, which includes high-profile figures from all coalition parties:
- Múte B. Egede (IA)
- Vivian Motzfeldt (S)
- Nivi Olsen (D)
- Naaja H. Nathanielsen (IA)
- Anna Wangenheim (D)
- Mads Pedersen (IA)
- Peter Borg (D)
- Bentiaraq Ottosen (A)
- Aqqaluaq B. Egede (IA)
New parliamentary leadership
The new Inatsisartut also confirmed a reshuffling of its top leadership. Veteran Siumut politician Kim Kielsen was elected as speaker, returning to the role he previously held from 2022 to 2023. Mimi Karlsen (IA), who held the speakership during the last legislative term, has now been named deputy speaker. Naleraq was the only party to abstain from the vote confirming Kielsen.
The transition was marked by ceremony and tradition. Politicians attended a service at Annaassisitta Oqaluffia before marching together to the parliament building, where the first session opened in front of a packed chamber filled with reporters and political observers.
A call for unity and security
Though the mood in the chamber was celebratory—with smiles, emotion, and informal jokes among politicians—the message from leaders was one of seriousness and unity. Greenland faces growing geopolitical attention, including repeated statements from USA President Donald Trump suggesting that the United States should gain control over the island.
Siumut’s Erik Jensen, now entering a new term despite a significant electoral setback for his party, emphasized the need for reassurance and cooperation. “The people need stability in the face of growing pressure from abroad. That requires all of us to work together,” he said.
Controversy over cabinet appointment
The only immediate criticism came from the opposition party Naleraq, which objected to the appointment of Mads Pedersen as minister for children and youth. Pedersen had hosted KNR’s election debate just weeks ago. While Naleraq did not oppose him personally, the party raised concerns about maintaining the separation of powers in a country where media and politics are closely intertwined due to the small population.
A new chapter for Greenland
With its new coalition government and a powerful electoral mandate, Greenland is preparing to tackle domestic challenges while navigating complex international dynamics. As the world watches the Arctic region with increasing strategic and economic interest, the emphasis on stability, cooperation, and broad representation will likely define the Nielsen administration’s early moves.
Today’s swearing-in marks not just a change in leadership, but a symbolic moment for Greenlandic democracy—one grounded in tradition, yet facing outward toward a rapidly shifting global landscape.
