Greenland, Denmark
Is Greenland for sale? Its complex bond to Denmark explained
The quiet Arctic island the world just can’t stop eyeing
Greenland, with its towering glaciers, vast Arctic tundras and a population smaller than most European towns, seems like an unlikely candidate for geopolitical drama. Yet this remote island has found itself at the centre of international headlines, especially after US President Donald Trump’s repeated attempts to buy it. But Greenland isn’t just a frozen outpost waiting for a new owner. Its relationship with Denmark is layered with history, culture and a modern push for independence – making the question of whether Greenland is ‘for sale’ far more complicated than it first appears.
How did Greenland’s relationship with Denmark evolve?
Greenland’s bond with Denmark stretches back centuries, a connection forged through colonialism and cemented by political integration. The Danish colonial era began in the 18th century, when Denmark claimed Greenland as part of its kingdom. By 1953, it was officially incorporated into the Danish Realm and Greenlanders were granted Danish citizenship – a move that brought new opportunities but also fuelled a growing desire for autonomy.
In 1979, Denmark introduced Home Rule, allowing Greenland to manage many of its domestic affairs. But this was just the beginning. The Self-Government Act of 2009 further expanded Greenland’s autonomy, recognising Greenlanders as a distinct people with the right to self-determination under international law. Today, Greenland controls its own government and natural resources, but Denmark still oversees foreign policy, defence and monetary affairs. This unique arrangement reflects both a shared history and Greenland’s evolving identity as it edges closer to potential independence.
Why is the world – and more recently, the US – so interested in Greenland?
While Greenland’s icy landscapes might seem inhospitable, the island holds a treasure trove of natural resources beneath its surface – from rare earth minerals to vast reserves of oil and gas. Its strategic position in the Arctic also places it squarely in the sights of global powers eyeing new shipping routes and military advantages in a rapidly warming world.
Enter Donald Trump. In 2019, during his first term as US President, Trump floated the idea of buying Greenland, only to be met with incredulous responses from both Danish and Greenlandic leaders. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen called the idea ‘absurd’, while Greenland’s leaders were quick to assert that the island wasn’t on the market. The proposal was dismissed and Trump’s planned visit to Denmark was cancelled in response to the diplomatic fallout.
Yet in 2025, following his return to the presidency, Trump renewed his interest in purchasing Greenland, calling control of the island ‘an absolute necessity’ for US national security. His administration even sent envoys – including his son, Donald Trump Jr. – to Greenland’s capital, Nuuk, distributing ‘Make America Great Again’ hats and signalling America’s continued interest. The idea of buying territory might seem like a relic of a bygone era, but Greenland’s rising geopolitical significance ensures it remains firmly in the global spotlight.
Can Greenland afford independence?
While Greenland has taken significant strides toward greater self-governance, full independence remains an economic challenge. The island’s economy is heavily reliant on fishing, particularly shrimp and halibut and an annual block grant from Denmark accounts for roughly two-thirds of Greenland’s government budget.
Surveys suggest that while many Greenlanders support the idea of full independence, this support wanes when faced with the potential for decreased living standards. A 2016 poll indicated that 64% of Greenlanders favoured independence, but a 2017 follow-up revealed that 78% opposed it if it meant a decline in their quality of life. This economic dependency complicates the path toward full sovereignty, as Greenland’s government explores ways to diversify its economy without compromising its people’s well-being.
Mining and tourism have been touted as potential growth sectors, but both come with challenges. Mining ventures face environmental concerns and the high costs of operating in such a remote region, while the fragile Arctic ecosystem and limited infrastructure make mass tourism a tricky prospect. Greenland’s leaders are walking a tightrope, balancing the desire for independence with the practicalities of economic sustainability.
What makes Greenland such a unique place to visit?
For visitors, Greenland offers something truly unique – an experience that feels both otherworldly and intimately connected to nature. It’s a land where towering glaciers calve into turquoise fjords, icebergs drift past brightly coloured houses and the midnight sun bathes the landscape in an ethereal glow during summer.
The town of Ilulissat, home to the UNESCO-listed Ilulissat Icefjord, is one of Greenland’s most iconic destinations. Here, visitors can witness colossal icebergs breaking off from the Sermeq Kujalleq glacier, one of the most active glaciers in the world. The sight is both awe-inspiring and humbling, a reminder of nature’s raw power in a rapidly changing climate.
But Greenland is equally about its people – the Kalaallit Inuit – whose traditions and culture are deeply woven into daily life. Visitors can experience dog sledding across the tundra, join a community gathering in a remote settlement or taste local delicacies like musk ox, Arctic char and mattak (whale blubber). The island’s isolation has preserved a way of life that feels authentic and grounded, offering travellers a rare glimpse into a culture that has thrived in one of the planet’s harshest environments.
Adventure seekers will find no shortage of activities. Winter brings opportunities for snowmobiling, ice fishing and witnessing the Northern Lights in their full glory. In summer, hiking trails wind through dramatic landscapes and boat trips navigate the icy waters to explore glaciers, fjords and remote villages inaccessible by road.
What does the future hold for Greenland?
Despite the headlines, Greenland isn’t for sale. But its future remains an open question. The Self-Government Act of 2009 provides a clear pathway for Greenland to pursue full independence through a referendum – a decision that lies entirely in the hands of its people. Denmark has repeatedly affirmed its commitment to respecting Greenland’s right to self-determination.
Yet the island’s leaders are in no rush. Prime Minister Múte Egede has been clear – Greenland’s focus is on building a sustainable future that benefits its people, not on entertaining foreign bids. The island’s unique position – culturally distinct yet economically intertwined with Denmark – means that its path forward will require careful navigation.
Share this
Book your stay
Stay in the know
Sign up for the latest hotspot news from the Nordics.
Bespoke partnerships
Before you book: the must-read guide to Norwegian fjord cruises
Insider guides
