Recent tensions between Denmark and the United States have thrust Greenland back into the geopolitical spotlight. What may look like a diplomatic dispute over territory in fact raises deeper questions about sovereignty and self-determination, Arctic security and governance, and the evolving role of NATO cooperation in shaping Denmark–Greenland–U.S. relations.
This Circle U. European University Alliance webinar convenes interdisciplinary perspectives to examine Greenland’s evolving position in a rapidly shifting global order. The panel will explore Denmark’s legal and political authority over Greenland, assess how and to what extent Greenland has benefited under Danish rule, and explore local expectations regarding autonomy, welfare, identity, and future statehood.
The discussions will also examine renewed U.S. strategic interest in Greenland, including the political consequences of proposals to “buy” Greenland and broader American security engagement in the Arctic. Has U.S. attention already shifted bargaining power between Copenhagen and Nuuk? Could it accelerate independence debates, reshape Denmark-Greenland relations, or alter Greenland’s options in a more contested Arctic? By bringing distinct voices into dialogue, the event aims to move beyond headline politics and enable a nuanced, analytically grounded discussion of Greenland’s future.
Moderated by Professor Dan Banik, Academic Director of the Circle U. Knowledge Hub on Democracy
Participants:
- Thea Bladt, PhD Student in History and steering committee member of the Uses of the Past Memory and Heritage Research Center (UPAST) at Aarhus University
- Karl Sandgreen: member of the local council in Illulisat and CEO of the Icefjord Center
Join the webinar on Zoom. 26 February 2026, 13:00 - 13:45 CET
