NUUK (Greenland), February 7, 2025 – The ruling party in Greenland, Siumut, announced on Thursday its intention to hold a referendum on independence following next month’s general elections. This issue has gained urgency due to the interest expressed by U.S. President Donald Trump regarding the potential acquisition of the island.
As a semi-autonomous territory of the Kingdom of Denmark, Greenland is scheduled to hold general elections on March 11. Key topics in the electoral campaign include the region’s aspirations for independence and its relationships with both Denmark and the United States.
Doris Jensen, the political spokesperson for the Siumut party, stated that Greenland must achieve independence from Denmark to effectively negotiate its future. “As long as our country remains without the status of an independent state, our opportunities to participate officially in negotiations will be limited,” she explained.
Erik Jensen, the leader of the Siumut party, told Danish television channel DR that he anticipates the independence vote will occur “during the next electoral term,” although he did not provide additional details.
The five political parties represented in Parliament have expressed their desire for Greenland not to become part of the United States. Rich in untapped mineral resources, Greenland’s economy heavily depends on fishing and subsidies from Denmark.
Jensen emphasized that any decision concerning independence should be made with a full understanding of its implications. “It must be approached with complete awareness so that the population does not doubt the consequences. We have a welfare society that needs to function, and we must consider the economic aspects involved,” he said.
