In shifting away from Denmark, Greenland hopes to pursue greater independence, as well as take control over its resources and decision-making processes. This transition raises questions about the potential impact on resource management in Greenland, particularly considering the interest from external actors like China in resource exploration.
Over the past two decades, Greenland’s movement toward independence has intensified. However, Greenland’s independence has been seen as likely for a long time. In 1953, an amendment to the Danish constitution incorporated Greenland as a province of Denmark. Subsequently, in 1979, Greenland was granted home rule, a governance structure where certain functions, such as colonial power, are devolved and institutionalized locally by the colonized nation. The Home Rule Act allowed Greenland to be included in the Danish Realm.
Over the past two decades, Greenland’s movement toward independence has intensified. However, Greenland’s independence has been seen as likely for a long time. In 1953, an amendment to the Danish constitution incorporated Greenland as a province of Denmark. Subsequently, in 1979, Greenland was granted home rule, a governance structure where certain functions, such as colonial power, are devolved and institutionalized locally by the colonized nation. The Home Rule Act allowed Greenland to be included in the Danish Realm.