Historical research project on the relations between Greenland and Denmark now underway

On 1 September 2025, a major and historical research project officially begins: the study of the relationship between Greenland and Denmark in the period after World War II and up to the present day.

The project stems from the joint declaration signed by Naalakkersuisut and the Danish government on 9 June 2022, in which it was decided to launch an independent, research-based study.

The purpose of the study is to create a solid academic basis for understanding the decisions, actions, and processes that have shaped Greenland's development and the relationship between Greenland and Denmark over the past decades. The ambition is thus also to contribute to a common understanding of the past and to lay the foundation for reconciliation.

The study is to highlight the most significant political decisions, events, and developments that have had consequences for Greenland and the Greenlandic population.

The research project has required a lengthy preliminary process of planning and preparation, which means that the actual research work can only begin now. Today's launch lays the foundation for a multi-year effort that will involve researchers, experts, and historians from both Greenland and Denmark.

Research leaders Tenna Jensen and Daniel Thorleifsen are very much looking forward to the work:

"It is a major and important responsibility to generate new knowledge about a period that has been so significant for both Greenland and Denmark. We approach the task with humility and professional diligence, and hope that our work can contribute to a common understanding and a more nuanced historical narrative," they say.

With this study, an important chapter has now been opened: a task that will generate new knowledge, insight, and understanding - and which can form the basis for an open and shared conversation about our shared history.

The research leaders are appointed jointly by Naalakkersuisut and the Danish government and are organizationally affiliated with Ilisimatusarfik.

Questions regarding the research project can be directed to [email protected].