A Mandate to Make Himself “Obsolete”
Newly elected Danish parliamentarian Qarsoq Høegh-Dam has an unusual ambition: to render his own role unnecessary. The Greenlandic politician, elected last month as the first representative of the pro-independence Naleraq party to Denmark’s parliament, says his ultimate goal is to transfer full responsibility for Greenland’s affairs to Nuuk, the Arctic territory’s capital.
“I want to make myself as obsolete as possible,” Høegh-Dam said, explaining that Greenland’s future should be determined exclusively by its own parliament and government. If that vision becomes reality, he argues, there would no longer be any need for Greenland’s two seats in Copenhagen.
Geopolitical Pressure Intensifies Debate
His election follows a turbulent period in Danish politics. In January, tensions escalated after U.S. President Donald Trump threatened to take control of Greenland. Reports later revealed that Denmark prepared contingency measures, including sending medical supplies and explosives to the island, amid fears of potential confrontation. Although tensions have eased, discussions about Greenland’s strategic importance remain unresolved.
The episode drew global attention to Greenland’s political status and Denmark’s historical ties to the territory. Modern colonization began in 1721 under Denmark-Norway. Greenland became part of the Danish kingdom in 1953, gained home rule in 1979 and expanded autonomy over subsequent decades. However, Copenhagen still retains authority over foreign and security policy.
Calls for Greater Self-Determination
Høegh-Dam argues that Denmark must fully meet its obligations to Greenland, particularly as global powers show increasing interest in the Arctic. He cited concerns over prison infrastructure funding, warning that perceived neglect could create openings for foreign influence.
While all major Greenlandic parties support eventual independence, Naleraq advocates a faster transition. Høegh-Dam points to the 2009 self-government act, which recognizes Greenlanders’ right to self-determination, as the legal framework guiding that path.
Naleraq, founded in 2014, has gained momentum in recent elections, doubling its representation in Greenland’s parliament and becoming the second-largest party. Though currently in opposition in Nuuk, its growing support underscores shifting public sentiment.
Constitutional Reform on the Agenda
The other Greenlandic MP in Copenhagen, Naaja Nathanielsen of the Inuit Ataqatigiit party, is also pressing for change. She has called for reform of Denmark’s 1953 constitution, which she argues limits Greenland’s control over foreign and security affairs and was never approved by Greenlandic voters.
“We do have much more self-determination than in the 1950s,” Nathanielsen said, “but still there are some elements where we don’t have access to the information that’s needed.” She described the current framework as a baseline inequality that complicates broader discussions about sovereignty.
Despite party differences, both MPs say they intend to cooperate closely in Copenhagen to advance Greenland’s interests.
A Relationship in Transition
Høegh-Dam stresses that independence does not equate to hostility toward Denmark. Instead, he envisions a future built on equality rather than what he describes as a “postcolonial structure.”
“The world is changing,” he said. “We have become resilient. I believe in the Greenlandic people, but I also want to believe in the Danish people in our common future, if we have one.”