Today’s news / Denmark and Greenland agree on parental test solution
The Danish and the Greenlandic government have agreed on a solution for the use of standardized psychological tests in placement cases. Minister for Social Affairs and Housing, Sophie Hæstorp Andersen (S), has previously stated that municipalities should consider refraining from using the tests in cases involving Greenlandic children. (Archive photo). Photo: Mads Claus Rasmussen/Ritzau Scanpix

Denmark and Greenland agree on parental test solution

Denmark’s government and Greenland’s government, Naalakkersuisut, have agreed on a joint solution regarding the use of standardized psychological tests in child custody cases. These tests have been criticized for not being adapted to Greenlandic culture and language, which critics argue could lead to wrongful placements. The details of the agreement have not been disclosed in the press release. Denmark will introduce legislation later in the current parliamentary session, with more information to be published next week. In summer 2024, Denmark’s Human Rights Institute urged the country’s five largest municipalities to discard the test, leading to Copenhagen and Esbjerg Municipalities ceasing its use. The minister had begun a preliminary study to adapt psychological tests to Greenlandic culture and language. Whether this study has resulted in the upcoming bill is not specified. Greenland’s Prime Minister Múte B. Egede had previously urged an immediate halt to the use of these tests and a re-evaluation of all tests conducted.