Centre-right Party Triumphs Over Inuit Ataqatigiit, Sparking Coalition Talks for New Government
In a stunning electoral upset, Greenland’s centre-right Democrat party has emerged victorious in a national election, securing an unprecedented number of seats in the Greenlandic parliament, the Inatsisartut. The party’s triumph comes after a dramatic campaign that unfolded against the backdrop of US President Donald Trump’s recent threats to purchase the Arctic island.
On March 11, 2025, the Democrats managed to triple their representation, garnering 10 seats—up from just three in 2005—ousting the Inuit Ataqatigiit (IA) party, which had held the majority under former Prime Minister Múte B Egede. With IA losing nearly half its seats, the Naleraq party, which also supports Greenland’s push for independence from Denmark, has emerged as the second-largest party. Naleraq saw its representation double, further shifting the political landscape.
The surprise victory of the Democrats, led by Jens-Frederik Nielsen, marks a significant shift in Greenland’s political future. Nielsen, a former badminton champion, expressed his joy at the unexpected result, highlighting the party’s stance on a more gradual approach to independence. The Democrats are now entering coalition talks with other parties, including Naleraq, to form a new government.
Greenland’s parliament consists of 31 seats, with a majority requiring 16. Despite the Democrats’ leading position with a 29.9% share of the vote, the lack of a majority will prompt the need for collaboration. Naleraq, which garnered 24.5% of the vote, is expected to be a crucial partner in the formation of the next government.
Both the Democrats and Naleraq share the goal of Greenland’s independence from Denmark, though their approaches differ. Naleraq advocates for a more rapid transition, while the Democrats are committed to a slower, more methodical path.
The election has gained global attention, primarily due to Trump’s recent comments about acquiring Greenland, which have sparked heightened interest in the region. This geopolitical tension, combined with a higher-than-usual voter turnout, has placed pressure on Greenland’s incoming leaders to navigate their relationship with both Denmark and the United States.
As Greenland prepares for its future, the new government will likely map out a timeline for independence, a movement supported by many residents. The election result is seen as a clear sign that Greenlanders are ready to assert their political and economic autonomy, particularly following recent scandals that have heightened discontent with Danish rule.
The outcome has also drawn attention in Denmark, where officials acknowledge the significance of the change in Greenland’s political landscape. With the future of the Arctic island at stake, the Danish minister of defence, Troels Lund Poulsen, noted that the Greenlandic population’s wishes would play a central role in determining the territory’s path forward.
