Greenland's journey towards self-governance: A breakdown

Ready to dive into the Greenlandic independence saga? And what's more, both Greenlanders and Danes are on board for the great divorce! But the question remains: when, oh when, will it happen? That's where everyone's attention is focused.

As per the Danish constitution, the government can cede territory with parliament's green light, no constitutional amendments needed. And, according to the 2009 self-rule law, Greenlanders themselves will be the ones defining their future, after a referendum held on the island.

But here's the twist: who exactly qualifies as a Greenlander in this separation process? That question has stirred up debates about Greenlandic nationality and the creation of an "Inuit register" to exclude Danes. As Pele Broberg, head of the independence advocacy party Naleraq, puts it, "The people who colonised the country are not supposed to be allowed to decide whether or not they want to continue (colonizing)". But creating such a register could be tricky, says Jorgen Albaek Jensen, a law professor, due to the many mixed marriages between Greenlanders and Danes.

Addressing the US Congress back in March, Trump acknowledged Greenlanders' self-determination and even offered to welcome them into the United States if they choose.

Meanwhile, the Greenlandic government is taking steps towards clarifying the process. They've set up a commission to review all aspects of the independence decision-making process, aiming to present their conclusions in late 2026. It's a long game, and sources indicate that full independence won't be achieved while Trump is in office.

A recent poll shows that 56% of Greenlanders support independence, but only if it doesn't adversely affect their living standards.

So, buckle up, folks! The journey to Greenlandic independence is just getting started. Keep an eye on these discussions if you're interested in this dramatic separation tale. And if you're curious about what's been happening in other Danish-related matters, feel free to check out some other articles on our site. Let the debates begin!

The question of Greenland's independence is dominating the news, with both Greenlanders and Danes supporting the separation but unsure of the timing.
As per the Danish constitution, parliament can approve the ceding of territory without needing constitutional amendments.
Greenlanders themselves will define their future through a referendum, as stipulated by the 2009 self-rule law.
The identity of who qualifies as a Greenlander in the separation process has stirred debates, leading to discussions about an "Inuit register" to exclude Danes.
Pele Broberg, head of the independence advocacy party Naleraq, argues that those who colonized the country should not decide on whether to continue.
Jorgen Albaek Jensen, a law professor, suggests that creating such a register could be challenging due to the numerous mixed marriages between Greenlanders and Danes.
Trump acknowledges Greenlanders' self-determination and offers a warm welcome to the US if Greenland chooses independence, but sources indicate that full independence won't be attained while he's in office.