The upset result comes as US President Donald Trump has repeatedly expressed interest in taking control of the strategically placed Arctic island, which also sits on large untapped reserves of crucial minerals
In the election's wake, center-right Demokraatit leader Jens-Frederik Nielsen has called for stability in US relations and domestic unity as his party gears up for what will be closely watched coalition talks
NUUK, Greenland
During his first term in office, Trump attempted to buy Greenland, citing its rich mineral resources and strategic location. Now, he has placed the island at the top of his geopolitical priorities, alongside Canada and the Panama Canal. While Denmark dismissed his previous proposal outright, speculation over renewed US interest has remained a key issue in Greenlandic politics.
This week, Nuuk, Greenland’s capital, saw an influx of journalists covering the country’s pivotal parliamentary election on Tuesday, March 11. Interest in the vote has been higher than ever due to its significance amid Trump’s renewed focus.
Against expectations, the ruling coalition — comprising the left-wing Inuit Ataqatigiit and Siumut parties — suffered a major defeat. Near complete counts showed both parties, which had firmly rejected Trump’s ambitions to acquire Greenland, secured only about 21% and 15% of the vote, respectively. This marks a dramatic decline from the previous election, when they commanded two-thirds of the electorate.
In a surprising turn, the center-right Demokraatit party emerged as the biggest winner, securing 30% of the vote in what is now being described as a seismic shift in Greenlandic politics.
“We did not expect this outcome, but we are very happy,” Demokraatit leader Jens-Frederik Nielsen said after the results. “I think this is a historic result in Greenland’s political history.”
Urging stability in US relations and domestic unity
In the wake of the election, Nielsen emphasized the importance of a steady and pragmatic approach to Greenland’s relationship with the US.
“We must have a calm course in relation to the USA,” he told local broadcaster KNR.
While independence from Denmark remains a long-term goal for many Greenlandic parties, Nielsen cautioned against rushing the process, stressing the need to first establish a strong economic foundation.
“In relation to state formation, we must first build the foundation. We must not build the house from the chimney down,” he said.
Nielsen also acknowledged the role of Naleraq, another right-wing party with a strong nationalist stance on Greenlandic independence, noting that it could not be ignored in coalition talks.
“It’s the second-largest party, so you can’t avoid them. But we don’t want to rule out the other parties in advance,” he said, signaling a willingness to negotiate with multiple factions to form a stable government.
He also called for unity within Greenland amid growing external pressures.
“Many big things are happening on a global scale, and it is important that we have one voice and one common vote,” he added.
“Greenland needs us to stand together in a time of great interest from outside. There is a need for unity, so we will enter into negotiations with everyone.”
Independence when the time 'is right'
Both Demokraatit and Naleraq support Greenland’s independence, but they differ on how to achieve it.
Demokraatit, which is set to lead the next coalition government, advocates a gradual transition, arguing that Greenland must first achieve economic self-sufficiency before separating from Denmark.
A Nuuk taxi driver, who asked to remain anonymous, said he supports this cautious approach.
“Greenlanders want independence, but we need money,” he said. “If the economy gets better, then we can think of an independent Greenland.”
He also suggested that Greenland should explore business opportunities with US companies to create jobs.
“Yes to independence, but when it is right,” he added.
A mineral-rich island at the center of global interest
Greenland’s wealth of natural resources has long made it a focus of geopolitical interest. While Trump has framed his push to take over the territory as a matter of national security, many believe the real driving force is the island’s untapped mineral potential.
A government employee from Greenland’s Mineral Resources Authority, speaking on condition of anonymity, said the island possesses vast reserves of nickel, cobalt, and copper, with further potential for zinc, rubies, and even diamonds.
“Climate change and the melting ice sheet that covers 80% of the island are revealing more and more resources every day,” the employee said. “This is what Trump is after.”
With Arctic ice receding at an accelerated pace, Greenland’s mining sector is expected to play an even larger role in global resource extraction in the coming years.
Rightward shift
While Demokraatit’s election victory was unexpected, the primary reasons behind this result were not solely related to independence from Denmark.
Many voters, particularly those in Greenland’s critical fishing industry, are frustrated by a controversial new fisheries law passed last year. The law introduced a 10-year transition period requiring all commercial fishing companies to be based in Greenland and created flexible individual species quotas that could be fished or traded. It also expanded coastal fishing rights from three miles offshore to 12 miles and set minimum prices for fish.
The law has proven unpopular for many Greenlanders who depend on the seafood industry, which remains the backbone of Greenland’s economy and accounts for 90% of the island’s export value and 30% of its total export volume.
A fisherman from Sisimiut, who voted for Demokraatit, said he was angered by how the previous government handled the law.
“We are already struggling with the cost of fuel, and then they make new rules without thinking about us,” he said. “This is why I voted for change.”
Economic concerns and dissatisfaction with healthcare services also contributed to the ruling coalition’s defeat and the rise of the two right-wing parties.
What’s next for Greenland’s new leadership?
With Demokraatit at the helm, the next government is expected to take a more business-friendly and pragmatic approach, focusing on economic growth, responsible resource management, and strengthening Greenland’s financial independence before pursuing full sovereignty.
As coalition negotiations begin, Nielsen and his party will need to navigate delicate discussions with Naleraq and other parties to form a stable governing bloc.
Greenland’s future remains uncertain, but one thing is clear: the political landscape has shifted dramatically at a time when the island’s global footprint is only growing.
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