Greenlanders favor independence without welfare loss

A majority of Greenlanders prefer independence but prioritize maintaining their standard of living, even if it concerns their safety or health. A poll by Verian for Berlingske and Sermitsiaq showed 56% in favor of independence, 28% against, and 17% undecided. However, 45% only support independence if it doesn’t negatively affect living standards. Denmark contributes around six billion kroner annually to Greenland’s public finances, which total approximately 14 billion kroner. With the island attracting global attention due to heightened interest from US president Donald Trump, the timing of the poll is notable. Greenland, which has had self-rule since 2009, still relies on Danish support for 30 areas including policing and judiciary. Foreign minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen has called it ‘premature’ to comment on continued financial support from Denmark post-independence.