The seven steps to Greenlandic independence

Greenland’s path to independence took a new turn with yesterday’s parliamentary elections, where parties favoring a gradual approach to sovereignty made significant gains. The center-right Demokraatit Party, which supports measured steps toward independence, secured approximately 30% of the vote, marking a major victory. Meanwhile, the pro-independence Naleraq Party saw big gains, securing 24% of the vote.

While Greenlanders broadly support independence, there is a divide over how quickly it should happen. The new government will now have to navigate a complex political and legal process to achieve full sovereignty. Here’s a look at the seven bureaucratic steps required for Greenland to become an independent nation.

The Seven steps to Greenlandic independence

1. Formal Declaration of Intent

The process begins when the Greenlandic government formally expresses its desire for independence and reaches out to Denmark to start official negotiations on the terms of separation.

2. Negotiations Begin

Once the intent is declared, negotiations commence between the Greenlandic and Danish governments. The discussions will outline how Greenland can exit the Kingdom of Denmark, covering key legal and economic matters.

3. Negotiating the Terms of Independence

This is one of the most complex phases, requiring Greenland and Denmark to agree on crucial details, such as:

• The timeline for Greenland’s exit from the Danish realm.
• Whether Denmark will continue financial subsidies during a transition period.
• The status of Greenlanders’ Danish citizenship after independence.
• How defense and foreign policy responsibilities will be handled.

These negotiations could take years due to the scale and importance of these agreements.

4. Reaching a Final Agreement

After long discussions, both governments must agree on a final independence treaty that establishes Greenland’s new legal status and international position.

5. Greenland’s Parliament Approves the Agreement

Once the treaty is finalized, Inatsisartut (Greenland’s Parliament) must vote to approve it before presenting it to the Greenlandic people.

6. Public Referendum in Greenland

The Greenlandic public will then have the final say. A national referendum will be held and if more than 50% of voters approve the agreement, Greenland will take the final steps toward sovereignty.

7. Final Approval from Denmark’s Parliament

Even after a successful referendum, the Danish Parliament (Folketinget) must formally approve the agreement before Greenland’s independence becomes official. Once approved, the transition can begin.

What Comes Next?

The results of Greenland’s election indicate a cautious, but steady movement toward independence. The new government will likely prioritize economic development to reduce dependence on Danish financial aid before taking formal steps toward separation.

As the new Greenlandic Parliament takes shape, the country faces a historic decision—whether to push forward rapidly or continue on a measured path toward sovereignty. The next few years will be critical in shaping Greenland’s future on the world stage.

This election marks a new chapter in Greenland’s independence movement, but the road ahead remains long and complex. Whether the country accelerates its departure from Denmark or takes a more gradual approach will depend on political negotiations, public opinion and economic readiness.