Greenland isn’t playing a major role in the global realignment of power. It has become perhaps one of the most important pieces of Europe’s economic and strategic underpinnings. The world, in short, is leaving behind the post-Cold War dream. Now, the European Union (EU) needs to make an equally bolder political reclamation — of Greenland, a vast territory rich in hydrocarbons, critical minerals and lesser-known marine proteins. This vast resource wealth positions Greenland not only as a potential member of Europe’s strategic vision but as a key player in shaping the continent’s autonomy in an increasingly complex global landscape.
Greenland’s resource potential stands out in light of its strategic location and its importance to Europe’s economic framework. The island has strategic deposits of hydrocarbons and critical minerals. These resources are increasingly critical inputs to the new economy, from tech to clean tech and beyond. In addition, its marine resources provide critical sources of protein that can feed not only local communities but the rest of Europe as well. Greenland is more than a mere island; it’s a veritable El Dorado of resources. These resources can—and should—be used to help create a truly more resilient Europe.
The rapidly shifting geopolitical climate requires that we take a hard look at how best to position Greenland within Europe. These discussions between the United States and Denmark over Greenland have brought the island’s significance in today’s global political and strategic dynamics into stark relief. As countries and alliances contend with realigned partnerships and new forms of aggression from military to cyber attacks, climate change has put Greenland back on Europe’s strategic map. By integrating Greenland into its framework, the EU could enhance its geopolitical standing and foster a collaborative approach to regional challenges.
For context, Greenland’s historical departure from the European Communities in 1985 came soon after its self-rule from Denmark in 1979. Since then, the attitudes of Greenlanders towards Europe have changed dramatically. Today’s talk reminds us that there is a need and an opportunity to revive and renew the relationship between Greenland and the EU. Europe is keen to establish itself in the role of primary convener in the basin. This change in attitude has laid the groundwork for the EU to initiate a closer partnership with Greenland. This approach would enable a stronger partnership while better respecting Greenland’s autonomy and realizing its growing strategic importance.
In her recent annual state of the union address, President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen notably omitted any mention of Greenland. This lack of foresight is remarkable, especially in the context of continuing conversations about purchasing or getting use of the island. Europe’s inability or unwillingness to come up with a serious counterproposal is suspect. It puts in question whether they are actually serious about creating a mutually beneficial relationship with Greenland. A proactive approach is essential, so the EU should consider presenting a comprehensive proposal to Greenland that includes potential EU membership by 2026 or 2027.
This proposal may lead to earlier settlements on key contentious matters, like fisheries. Fisheries are the largest sector of Greenland’s economy and essential to food security in Europe. The EU needs to act quickly. It would be prudent to couple this with a major, long-term investment package targeted at building the processing infrastructure we need while sustainably extracting those critical raw materials. Such investments would be a boon to Greenland’s economy and help ensure the EU’s supply chains for critical minerals are more resilient.
In light of the ongoing discussions about Greenland’s future, Europe must step up and lead. The changing global landscape reflects a departure from relative stability, underscoring the need for multilateral coordination in addressing emerging challenges. By positioning itself as a partner rather than an occupier, the EU can help ensure that Greenland remains a space for collaboration and mutual benefit.