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The Guardian - UK
The Guardian - UK
Comment
Rune Lykkeberg

Greenland’s tragedy: the dream of independence now looks like a trap laid by Donald Trump

Greenland houses
‘Greenland’s people still seek the dignity and pride of being their own masters.’ Photograph: dts News Agency Germany/Shutterstock

There are two tales about the relationship between Greenland and Denmark; both contain truth and blindness. One is the story told by the ruling classes in Denmark, the other is the narrative that unites progressives and nationalists in Greenland.

The moral of the first tale is that Greenland, as a part of the Danish kingdom, has managed the extremely challenging transition to a modern society without sacrificing its culture or identity. This is a rare and impressive achievement. Greenlanders are among the only indigenous people in the world with their own parliament, political institutions and education system and who have maintained their own language. And they have access to the same welfare services as other citizens of Denmark.

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