On 21 June 2009, Greenland entered a new constitutional era as an expanded self-government agreement with Denmark came into force, granting the Arctic territory significantly greater control over its own affairs. The milestone marked one of the most important political developments in Greenland’s modern history and strengthened its path towards greater autonomy while remaining within the Kingdom of Denmark.
A historic constitutional transition
The Self-Government Act replaced Greenland’s previous Home Rule arrangement, which had been in place since 1979. The reform followed a referendum held in November 2008, in which more than 75% of Greenlandic voters supported expanding the island’s self-governing powers. The legislation officially took effect on Greenland’s National Day, 21 June 2009.
The new arrangement recognised the Greenlandic people as a distinct people under international law with the right to self-determination. While Greenland remained part of the Kingdom of Denmark, the agreement established a constitutional framework that allows the territory to assume responsibility for additional policy areas over time.
Greater control over domestic affairs
Under the Self-Government Act, Greenland gained the right to take over responsibility for numerous governmental functions previously administered by Copenhagen. These include policing, the judicial system, company law, natural resources, aviation, financial regulation and several other domestic policy areas, should Greenland choose to assume them.
Greenlandic also became the island’s official language, reinforcing the territory’s cultural identity and recognising the importance of Indigenous language and heritage in public administration and education. Denmark retained authority over defence, foreign affairs, monetary policy and constitutional matters, although cooperation between Nuuk and Copenhagen was strengthened under the new framework.
Natural resources at the centre of future ambitions
One of the most significant aspects of the agreement concerned Greenland’s vast mineral and energy resources. The Self-Government Act allows Greenland to assume control over its subsoil resources and benefit directly from future revenues, although increased resource income gradually reduces the annual financial grant provided by Denmark.
With growing international interest in Greenland’s reserves of rare earth minerals, critical metals and potential energy resources, the agreement laid the groundwork for greater economic independence. At the same time, Greenland continues to face challenges related to infrastructure, labour shortages, environmental protection and balancing economic development with Indigenous rights.
A continuing journey towards self-determination
Although the 2009 reform did not make Greenland independent, it represented a significant constitutional milestone. The agreement provides a legal pathway for Greenland to assume additional responsibilities and, should its people choose through democratic processes, ultimately pursue full independence in the future.
More than a decade later, Greenland’s strategic importance has only increased amid Arctic geopolitics, climate change and global competition for critical minerals. The Self-Government Act remains the foundation upon which Greenland continues to shape its political, economic and international future while maintaining its constitutional relationship with Denmark.
Newshub Editorial in Europe – 21 June 2026
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