Greenland’s General Election: Why the Vote Matters as Trump Expresses Interest in the Island | Election News

Greenland, the world’s largest island, will vote on Tuesday to elect its next parliament and government.

Elections in this sparsely populated Danish territory typically attract only local attention. However, this vote comes at a time when the island has gained significant geopolitical importance, as United States President Donald Trump has openly and repeatedly expressed his desire to acquire it.

Greenland, technically part of North America, is rich in mineral resources, situated halfway between Russia and the US, and already hosts a US military base.

“I think we’re going to get it. One way or the other, we’re going to get it,” Trump told the US Congress last week, a statement that has been met with resistance from Greenlandic leaders.

So who is eligible to vote in this election? Which are the main parties? What are the key issues driving voters? And what is at stake for Greenland?

Who’s voting and how does it work?

Approximately 41,000 of Greenland’s roughly 56,000 residents are eligible to vote, electing 31 members to the Inatsisartut, Greenland’s parliament.

The election follows a proportional representation system, meaning seats are allocated based on the share of votes each party receives.

Polling stations will open at 9am local time (11:00 GMT) and close at 8pm (22:00 GMT). Despite Greenland’s vast and remote terrain, experts predict a high voter turnout of around 70 to 75 percent.

Given the relatively small electorate, preliminary results are expected within hours of the polls closing, with final results typically announced the following day.

Which are the main parties and what do they stand for?

Several parties are competing in the election, each with its own vision for Greenland’s future:

• Inuit Ataqatigiit (IA): The left-wing party, led by incumbent Prime Minister Mute Bourup Egede, holds 11 seats in parliament. It supports Greenlandic independence and has suggested a future referendum, though not necessarily during this election cycle.
• Siumut: A historically dominant party now in opposition, Siumut also supports independence but advocates a more gradual approach, focusing on economic development.
• Naleraq: A staunchly pro-independence party emphasizing Greenlandic cultural identity and self-determination, pushing for full sovereignty.
• Demokraatit: A centre-right party prioritizing economic growth, education, and healthcare. It supports independence but stresses the need for economic stability first.
• Atassut: A liberal-conservative party advocating for strong ties with Denmark, believing the current autonomy framework supports Greenland’s economic growth.

Key issues

Independence

Independence remains the most significant theme in this election, with parties divided over whether to pursue it immediately or gradually.

Trump’s repeated calls to acquire Greenland have reignited debates about independence from Denmark, which provides annual subsidies to Greenland.

Prime Minister Egede has firmly rejected Trump’s statements, asserting that “Greenland is ours.”

Experts believe Trump’s remarks have galvanized Greenlanders to reaffirm their desire for independence. Jennifer Spence, director of the Arctic Initiative at the Belfer Center, noted that while opinions vary on the timeline, Trump’s comments have strengthened Greenland’s negotiating position with Denmark.

Richard Powell, professor of Arctic studies at the University of Cambridge, said Trump’s interventions have consolidated Greenland’s ties with Denmark in the short term. However, Greenland can call an independence referendum whenever it chooses.

Ebbe Volquardsen, a cultural history professor at the University of Greenland, said growing international attention has reinforced Greenland’s push for greater autonomy.

Economic development

Greenland’s economy relies heavily on its fishing industry and Danish financial support. Some parties advocate expanding mining, tourism, and resource extraction to foster economic independence.

Greenland’s vast mineral resources, including rare earth elements, have drawn global interest. However, mining faces opposition from Indigenous communities and concerns over environmental and economic viability.

Volquardsen described this as a “unique moment of opportunity” for Greenland to redefine its international partnerships and economic future.

How will the election affect Greenland’s foreign relations?

The election could reshape Greenland’s approach to international partnerships, strengthening ties with Denmark while expanding cooperation with the US, Iceland, and Canada.

Spence noted that the election will provide insight into the pace of Greenland’s push for independence and its response to US interest in the island.

How much does Denmark control Greenland?

Greenland is an autonomous Danish territory, managing most domestic affairs but relying on Denmark for foreign policy, defense, and significant financial support. Denmark’s annual block grant accounts for over half of Greenland’s budget.

Why is Trump so interested in Greenland?

Greenland’s strategic location and resource potential have drawn Trump’s attention. The island offers the shortest route from North America to Europe, and the US operates an airbase there. There are also concerns about Russian and Chinese presence in the Arctic region.

An opinion poll shows that 85 percent of Greenlanders oppose becoming part of the US, with many viewing Trump’s interest as a threat.

Volquardsen noted that the election has sparked debate over whether Greenland should engage with the US or strengthen its existing partnerships with Denmark and Europe.