Greenland obviously has its own defense policy - but it needs anchoring to be sustainable

DIIS Policy Brief "Greenland obviously has its own defense policy - but it needs anchoring to be sustainable" by Sara Olsvig & Ulrik Pram Gad has just been published.

Historically, Danish decisions have not always put Greenlandic interests first.

Although defence policy is formally a matter for the Danish Realm, decisions only gain legitimacy if Greenland is involved in making them.

Military installations and activities have a profound impact on Greenland's civil society.

Increased major power rivalry in the Arctic confronts the Danish Realm with a number of concrete issues.

Denmark and Greenland must each make clear what role they want in the world and together rethink the division of responsibilities and coordination.

Otherwise, the Danish Realm risks contributing to tension instead of détente - and Greenland risks missing out on potential gains from increased attention from the major powers.