Greenlandic parties urge end to US disdain and emphasize self-governance

In a significant political statement, the five parties in Greenland"s parliament have jointly expressed their concerns regarding perceived tensions with the United States. The leaders of these parties have articulated a strong desire for the US to reconsider its attitude towards Greenland, emphasizing their commitment to self-governance and national identity.

Key Details

The joint statement, released on January 10, 2026, underscores the Greenlandic leaders" assertion that they do not wish to be identified as Americans or Danes, but rather as Greenlanders. This sentiment reflects a growing emphasis on national identity and autonomy among the Greenlandic populace.

Greenland operates under the Self-Government Act, which was enacted in 2009, granting the territory increased autonomy from Denmark. The act allows Greenland to govern itself in many areas, while Denmark retains control over foreign affairs and defense. The leaders reiterated that the Greenlandic government and parliament are democratically elected by the citizens of Greenland, reinforcing their legitimacy and authority to make decisions on behalf of the people.

In their statement, the party leaders expressed a desire for cooperative relations with the US and other Western nations but insisted that these relationships must respect Greenland’s sovereignty. They emphasized that future decisions regarding the territory must be made by the Greenlandic people themselves, a point that resonates with the ongoing discussions about self-determination in the region. This aligns with previous reports highlighting the importance of local governance in Greenland"s political landscape, as seen in recent developments.

Background

Greenland, the world"s largest island, has been a territory of Denmark since the 18th century. The Self-Government Act marked a pivotal moment in Greenland"s political history, allowing for a greater degree of self-rule and the ability to make decisions on local matters. The relationship between Greenland and the United States has been historically complex, particularly in light of the island"s strategic location in the Arctic and its natural resources.

The recent statement from Greenlandic leaders comes amid growing international interest in Arctic affairs, with nations vying for influence and access to resources in the region. The US has shown particular interest in Greenland, especially during the Trump administration, which included a controversial proposal to purchase the territory. This has led to heightened sensitivities regarding Greenland"s sovereignty and its relationship with both Denmark and the US.

What"s Next

The joint statement from Greenland"s political parties signals a clear message about the importance of self-governance and national identity. As Greenland continues to navigate its relationships with larger powers like the US and Denmark, the emphasis on local decision-making will likely shape future diplomatic discussions and policies. The Greenlandic government appears committed to maintaining its autonomy while fostering cooperative relationships with international partners, ensuring that the voices of its citizens remain central to any negotiations.

As Greenland moves forward, the implications of this statement may resonate beyond its borders, potentially influencing how other territories and nations approach issues of self-determination and governance in a rapidly changing geopolitical landscape.