Greenland – from Autonomy to (In)Dependence

Abstract

Matters associated with the current development of Greenland can be viewed from the perspective of internal relations in the Kingdom of Denmark. Nevertheless, the processes unfolding on the world's largest island seem to be much more profound. The island's strategic location, advancing climate change and reports of deposits of mineral resources all make Greenland a subject of interest to more than just researchers of the Arctic. The formation process of the island's statehood exemplifies how the principle of self-determination of nations can be applied. The significance of this process can hardly be exaggerated, especially given the independence movements that have recently emerged (for instance in Catalonia and Scotland).The purpose of this paper is to analyze the process of development of Greenland's autonomy, especially vis-à-vis the Act on Greenland Self-Government of 2009, which ensures that decisions on the future status of the island will be made by the people of Greenland. This study also aims to discuss the relations between Denmark and Greenland in terms of post-colonial relations between the former metropolis/colonizer and the island, outlining also the discourse on independence in Greenland. Finally, the paper analyzes the popular claim that the anticipated proceeds from mineral extraction will lay foundations for Greenland to become independent from Danish subsidies, thereby allowing the island to become a sovereign entity.The Kingdom of Denmark is a unique example of a unitary state composed of three clearly distinct components: Denmark and Greenland and the Faroe Islands, both of which enjoy considerable autonomy. The Home Rule Acts of individual Nordic territories have been designed so as to ensure that the unity of the state is retained, while recognizing and respecting the diverse characters of its components. The main reason behind this was to give power regarding matters concerning these territories exclusively, and the resulting accountability, to their residents, in recognition of the exceptional historical, cultural, ethnic and geographical positions of these territories.From 1814 until the mid-20 th century, Greenland was a colony directly governed by the Danish government. In 1954, the island was included in the Kingdom of Denmark as a district (amt), thereby terminating the period of colonial dependence. In 1973, work commenced to prepare self-government for Greenland within the Kingdom of Denmark. An agreement was worked out and adopted both by the Danish parliament and the island residents, and on May 1, 1979, the Greenland Home Rule Act came into force. In late 20 th century, the community of Greenland (as well as the Faroe Islands) concluded that the Home Rule Act had performed its intended function and respon-