Denmark has signaled its willingness to increase investments in Greenland, alongside a broader effort to modernize and rebalance the Kingdom of Denmark (Rigsfællesskabet). At a press conference held in Tórshavn on the Faroe Islands, Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen stated that Denmark is prepared to strengthen its ties with both Greenland and the Faroe Islands, granting them greater influence and autonomy within the realm.
Strengthening the kingdom and Nordic cooperation
Frederiksen emphasized that Denmark is ready to support greater self-governance for both territories, particularly in areas such as foreign policy and representation. “We have taken several steps in recent years, including within the Arctic Council and through the Arctic ambassador,” she said.
Frederiksen also expressed support for expanding Greenlandic and Faroese roles within the Nordic Council, which currently includes representatives from Denmark, Finland, Norway, Sweden, and Iceland, with special representation from autonomous regions like Åland, Greenland, and the Faroe Islands.
Greenland demands equity and infrastructure funding
Greenland’s Premier Jens-Frederik Nielsen underlined that the territory expects concrete financial commitments from Denmark. “There has not been enough investment in Greenland. If we are to feel equal, there must be more effort from the Danish side,” Nielsen stated. He stressed the need for a stronger foundation for Greenlandic society, indicating that increased investment is both necessary and expected.
The remarks came during the biannual meeting of the Foreign, Security and Defence Policy Contact Committee, which brings together leaders from the three parts of the Danish Realm. The session included discussions on foreign affairs and future collaboration frameworks.
Strategic and political implications
The commitment to increase investments is seen not only as a response to long-standing calls for equity but also as a way to ensure strategic stability and cohesion in the Arctic. Both Greenland and the Faroe Islands have expressed desires for more say in their own external affairs, and Denmark’s move can be interpreted as a preemptive effort to maintain unity amid growing geopolitical interest in the region.
While no specific funding figures were disclosed, the signal from Copenhagen is clear: modernizing the Rigsfællesskab involves real financial and political concessions.
