Greenland Moves Towards Independence
Greenlanders Vote for More Autonomy in Self-Government Referendum
Dec 17, 2008
In 1721, Denmark colonised Greenland. For the past 287 years the Arctic island has been linked to Denmark in some capacity.
However, that may not be the case for much longer. In a self-government referendum back on 25th November 2008 the people of Greenland voted overwhelmingly in favour of greater autonomy.
Proposal of Greenland’s Self-Government Referendum
Greenland’s Prime Minister, Hans Enoksen, made an announcement on 2nd January 2008, stating that a referendum would take place with regards to Greenland having further control over her own affairs. Since that date numerous discussions were held within the country in order to educate Greenlanders on the issue.
While Greenland was granted home rule by Danish authorities a little over 29 years ago, the self-government referendum would expand home rule in 30 areas.
The areas in question include the police, courts and coast guard. Greenland would also have more of a say on foreign policy, as well as Danish being replaced as the country’s official language by Greenlandic (Kalaallisut).
Perhaps the most important change of all will be that the Greenlanders will be officially recognised as separate people under international law.
Results of Greenland’s Self-Government Referendum
The referendum was passed as 70% of the eligible voters turned out to do so, with 76% of them voting in favour of the self-government referendum. The new measures are set to come into force on 21st June 2009, the 30th anniversary of the establishment of home rule.
Is Greenland Ready for Independence?
A large amount of Danish ministers have voiced concerns as to whether Greenland would ever be able maintain itself economically. At the present time, Denmark pays a subsidy to Greenland. Currently, this payment accounts for 30% of Greenland’s GDP.
Under the new self-government proposal the subsidies would be gradually phased out, leaving Greenland with less money.
Concerns of this nature may be well founded but the new proposal will allow Greenland to take full control of revenues from natural resources, such as, gas and oil.
It is, however, not yet known as to whether money brought in through natural resources will recoup the losses felt from the lack of a Danish subsidy.
When Might Greenland Become Independent?
With the passing of this landmark referendum talk as once again turned towards whether or not Greenland will gain independence in the near future. The raising of this issue in conversation will garner a vast array of responses.
Many campaigners for independence have noted 2021 down in their diaries, a year that would have grave historical significance for independence. 2021 will mark the 300th anniversary of colonisation by Denmark.
Enoksen has said that he would like it to happen in 12 years time, just in time for his 65th birthday. Elsewhere in parliament, the foreign minister, Aleqa Hammond, hopes for independence within eight years.
Approximately 12% of Greenland’s population are of Danish descent, many of which would prefer that Greenland never gain full independence.
References:
Greenland Vote Favors Independence - New York Times
The Big Question: Is Greenland Ready for Independence, and What Would It Mean for its People? - The Independent
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