As the world's attention increasingly turns to the Arctic for its strategic and economic potential, Greenland faces a unique set of challenges. To better understand the perspectives of its population on these issues, the Nasiffik Centre at the University of Greenland conducted its second public opinion survey on foreign and security policy.
This follow-up to the inaugural 2021 survey provides a comprehensive look at how the people of Greenland perceive critical domestic and international issues, including economic priorities, partnerships with other nations, and security concerns.
The survey arrives at a pivotal moment. The global landscape has been dramatically reshaped by events in Ukraine, the expansion of NATO, and a second Trump Administration. These changes have placed new pressures on Arctic governance and highlighted Greenland’s central role within the Kingdom of Denmark and the broader North Atlantic.
At Risby, we explore how these findings offer valuable lessons for policymakers, businesses, and international stakeholders seeking to engage with Greenland in the future.
Domestic Challenges Dominate Greenlandic Concerns
Despite global security shifts, the people of Greenland continue to prioritise domestic issues over geopolitical concerns. The top challenges include high living costs (24.4%), economic conditions (16.4%), and unemployment (11.5%). This mirrors the results from 2021, highlighting persistent economic struggles and the importance of addressing everyday challenges to build resilience within the community.
For businesses and organisations looking to invest in Greenland, success will require a community-centric approach that recognises and responds to the immediate concerns of the people of Greenland. These priorities underscore the need for economic initiatives that align with local needs and values, such as job creation with social value.
International Cooperation: A Focus on Arctic Neighbours
The people of Greenland remain strong advocates for collaboration with nearby Arctic nations, particularly Iceland (80.6%), Canada (79.9%), and the Arctic Council (79%). These trusted partners align with Greenland's strategic goals, including sustainable development and regional stability. However, enthusiasm for international cooperation has dipped slightly since 2021, reflecting broader skepticism toward globalisation in uncertain times. For companies aiming to expand into Greenland or Arctic regions, this trend emphasises the importance of fostering trust through transparent and community-focused partnerships.
Growing Support for European Union Membership
One of the most surprising findings in the 2024 survey is the dramatic shift in attitudes toward EU membership. In 2021, 60% of respondents opposed rejoining the EU, but by 2024, the tide had turned, with 60% now supporting membership. This change coincides with heightened EU engagement in Greenland, including the opening of an EU office in Nuuk and the launch of collaborative initiatives in fisheries, green growth, and critical mineral development. These efforts have likely contributed to a more favourable perception of the EU as a partner in addressing Greenland’s economic and environmental challenges.
The prospect of Greenland rejoining the EU holds significant implications for international businesses and policymakers. EU membership could enhance access to markets, unlock funding for infrastructure projects, and expand cooperation on energy and environmental policies. For businesses, this trend underscores the importance of aligning with Greenland’s strategic priorities, particularly in sustainability, renewable energy, and fisheries.
NATO and the Great Powers: Shifting Priorities
Greenland’s relationship with global powers remains complex. NATO remains the most trusted security partner, with 44.3% of respondents supporting closer ties. However, perceptions of NATO have softened, with fewer Greenlanders viewing it positively (65.1%) compared to 2021 (75.5%). This decline may reflect a broader ambivalence toward aligning too closely with any single bloc.
Relations with the US are similarly nuanced. While the US is seen as a key security partner, enthusiasm for economic ties has lessened, reflecting Greenlanders' desire for balanced engagement that safeguards sovereignty.
Caution toward China and Russia has intensified. Opposition to cooperation with Russia has grown significantly, reflecting the ongoing ramifications of the war in Ukraine. Similarly, skepticism toward Chinese investments has risen sharply, with 74.5% of respondents opposing them, up from 67.8% in 2021.
Preparing for the Future: Emergency Training and Defence
A new Arctic Basic Training program has gained traction, particularly among younger residents. This initiative reflects Greenland's efforts to enhance resilience against natural disasters and other challenges linked to climate change. While most respondents remain opposed to establishing a national military, the growing interest in emergency training suggests an opportunity to support capacity-building initiatives that align with local priorities and expertise.
What This Means for Stakeholders
Greenland's unique mix of domestic priorities and international ambitions offers valuable lessons for businesses and policymakers:
Economic Initiatives Must Address Local Needs: With domestic challenges at the forefront, investments that create jobs, reduce living costs, and drive economic diversification will resonate most with Greenlanders.
Collaboration with Trusted Partners Is Key: Stakeholders should prioritise partnerships with Arctic neighbours and institutions like the Arctic Council, leveraging existing trust and shared values.
Respect for Sovereignty and Transparency: The people of Greenland take a cautious stance towards global powers, reinforcing the need for respectful and transparent engagement in both economic and policy spheres.
Opportunities in Preparedness and Sustainability: Initiatives that enhance emergency preparedness, sustainability, and infrastructure development align well with Greenland's strategic priorities.
Strengthen EU Engagement: Businesses and policymakers can capitalise on Greenland’s growing interest in EU membership by aligning with its priorities for green growth, fisheries, and sustainable resource development.
Greenland’s 2024 opinion survey underscores the interplay between domestic resilience and international engagement in Arctic policymaking. For businesses and organisations, understanding these dynamics is essential to building successful, long-term partnerships in Greenland and beyond.
Four our full in-depth analysis on the report, contact sofie.andersen@risbyconsulting.com
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