Danish Monarch Journeys to Greenland, Seeking Solidarity amid Trump's Aggressive Statements
Copenhagen and Greenland: A Brief Overview of Their Complex Relationship
Even as headlines blast about Donald Trump's contentious idea of Greenland becoming part of the U.S., Denmark's King Frederik is planning a visit to the icy island. His motive? To underscore Denmark's unity and historical ties with Greenland, especially amidst the turbulent relationship between the island and its former administer, Denmark.
Originally scheduled for Monday, King Frederik's visit has been postponed to Tuesday due to inclement weather closing down the Greenland airport. Greenland's PM Jens-Frederik Nielsen, who was recently in Copenhagen for an official visit amidst pressure from Washington, will accompany the king.
Though the king is a symbolic head of state without formal political powers, his visit aims to showcase the unity among the people of both nations, and Denmark's historical ties with the colony. As tensions soared with Greenland last year, when its prime minister accused Denmark of historical "genocide" and stepped up efforts to push for independence from the European monarchy, such a move is significant.
With the recent leadership change, new Prime Minister Nielsen and Danish PM Mette Frederiksen reaffirmed their alliance at a joint press conference in Copenhagen. Yet, the Danish royal family maintains tradition—annual visits to Greenland and King Frederik's extended stays there for expeditions.
Their centuries-long connection dates back to the 18th century when Denmark formally colonized Greenland, establishing a monopoly on trade and imposing assimilation and resource-exploitation policies. Greenland was a Danish colony until 1953 when it officially became a part of Denmark and enjoyed political representation in the Danish parliament.
Since then, a call for independence grew stronger, and today, Greenland is a self-governing territory of Denmark, with the right to claim independence through a vote in 2009. The island has experienced strides of autonomy, but it still relies on Denmark for issues like defense and foreign policy.
As Trump's interest in Greenland brings geopolitical importance to light, Denmark and Greenland forge ahead to strengthen their ties, paving the road for further discussions on autonomy and potential independence.
Historical Dynamics between Denmark and Greenland
The relationship between Denmark and Greenland has evolved from colonial ties to a more autonomous political connection. Throughout history, it has been marked by moments of cultural clash, assimilation attempts, resource exploitations, changing political landscapes, and, at times, foreign occupation.
In the 18th century, Denmark colonized Greenland and enforced trade monopolies, restricting foreign access while pursuing policies aimed at assimilation and resource exploitation. In 1721, a missionary expedition was sent to Greenland to reinforce Christianity among the Inuit population, further consolidating Danish influence.
After the Treaty of Kiel in 1814, Greenland remained under Danish control as Norway was ceded to Sweden. During World War II, Denmark was occupied by Nazi Germany, severing Greenland's connection until the United States occupied Greenland from 1941 to 1945 to fend off German invasion.
Greenland integrated into Denmark in 1953, gaining some political representation in the Danish parliament. In 1973, Greenland joined the European Union as part of Denmark, but it gained home rule in 1979, giving Greenland more control over its domestic affairs. Greenland left the EU in 1986, a decision that reduced Danish influence on the island.
Ongoing discussions about greater autonomy or potential independence for Greenland continue to take place, reflecting the desire for self-governance while preserving strong historical ties with Denmark.
- The postponement of King Frederik's visit to Greenland, originally scheduled for Monday, underscores the significance of Nielsen's attendance, given his recent official visit to Copenhagen amidst pressure from Washington.
- Despite Denmark's historical ties with Greenland, which date back to the 18th century when Denmark formally colonized Greenland, the island asserted its call for independence in 2009, becoming a self-governing territory with the potential to secede through a vote.
- Amidst geopolitical intrigues, such as Donald Trump's contentious idea of Greenland becoming part of the U.S., the ongoing relationship between Denmark and Greenland is marked by political dynamics that emphasize unity, while recognizing historical grievances and striving for autonomy.
