Greenland is set to ban foreign political donations in an effort to prevent outside interference ahead of its upcoming elections, which must take place before April 6. The bill, aimed at “safeguarding the political integrity of Greenland,” is expected to pass this week, as the government holds a majority in parliament.
The move comes after former U.S. President Donald Trump repeatedly expressed interest in acquiring Greenland, despite firm rejections from both Greenland and Denmark. Trump has even suggested using tariffs and military pressure to advance his goal, keeping the Arctic island in the geopolitical spotlight.
The bill states that “parties, including local and youth sections, are not allowed to receive contributions from foreign or anonymous donors,” defining such donors as individuals or entities residing outside Greenland. It also caps private donations at 200,000 Danish krone (£22,000) in total, with no more than 20,000 krone allowed from a single source.
Greenland has consistently reaffirmed that it is not for sale, but leaders have emphasized that the island remains “open for business.” Some within the independence movement view U.S. interest as a way to strengthen Greenland’s bargaining position with Denmark or even as a potential route to full independence.
Denmark currently oversees Greenland’s defense and foreign policy, though Danish officials have made clear that the island belongs to its people. However, amid rising geopolitical tensions, Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen recently embarked on a European diplomatic tour following what was described as a “horrendous” 45-minute call with Trump.
Aaja Chemnitz, a Greenlandic representative in Denmark’s parliament, warned that “different people, different groups will try to affect the whole election in Greenland, not only in Greenland, but all over the world.”
