5.jan 2026
Greenland’s renewed international attention, national unity and the long-term goal of independence were central themes when Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen (Democrats) delivered his first New Year’s address to the nation on 1 January, according to KNR.
In his speech, delivered on the first day of the new year, Nielsen began by commemorating former Prime Minister Hans Enoksen, who passed away on 17 September after a long illness.
“I want to particularly mention the great influence he had on all of us and his significant efforts on our behalf. On behalf of Naalakkersuisut, I extend our condolences to his family,” Nielsen said in the address broadcast by KNR.
Nielsen described 2025 as a historic year, noting that global attention had once again turned toward Greenland.
“2025 will be remembered in history. It was also a year when the world once again directed its attention toward us,” he said.
He added that the lack of respect and condescension shown toward Greenland internationally had affected the entire population, referencing a demonstration held in Nuuk on 15 March against the United States and former U.S. President Donald Trump.
“The message was that our country cannot simply be annexed and that our country is not for sale. Unfortunately, recent events have forced us to repeat that message,” he said.
At the same time, Nielsen stressed that the international crisis had also led to increased recognition and support for Greenland.
“This was not just a political event. It was a reflection of who we are as a people. When we stand together, help one another and listen to each other, we can do more than we think,” he said.
According to KNR, Nielsen used the speech to review key political developments in 2025 and outline the government’s ambitions for the coming years. Among them was his speech to the European Parliament in Strasbourg in October, the first ever by a Greenlandic head of government.
Relations with Denmark were also addressed.
“Our relationship with Denmark is part of our shared future. It is a long partnership filled with both good and difficult chapters,” Nielsen said.
One of those difficult chapters, the spiral case, reached a milestone in 2025 when affected women received a formal apology from the Danish prime minister.
“It was long overdue. Following the apology, the affected women will receive compensation they are entitled to in the new year,” he said.
Nielsen also highlighted the framework agreement on a self-sustaining Greenland signed with Denmark in September. Under the agreement, Greenland will receive 1.6 billion kroner between 2026 and 2029 for projects including healthcare, port renovations and a new runway in Ittoqqortoormiit.
Social policy, children and families, and economic development were also key topics. Nielsen said too many children are placed outside the home and stressed the need for collective responsibility.
“We can change this through care, knowledge and honesty, and through a culture where we help one another before problems grow too large,” he said.
On the economic front, he pointed to plans for a business tax reform aimed at making it easier to start and run companies in Greenland. Tourism was highlighted as a rapidly growing sector, while fisheries were described as the backbone of the economy. He also thanked fishermen and hunters for their year-round efforts.
Looking ahead, Nielsen expressed optimism about Greenland’s future and the shared hope of independence.
“We have already shown that we can stand together. I believe we can get there, but we must build a foundation that can carry us,” he said, noting that independence also comes at a cost.
He concluded his first New Year’s address with a call for unity across the country.
“We are one people, whether we live in the north, south, east or west. Our strength is greatest when we lift together. May 2026 be a year of hope, opportunity and strong communities.”
