In a landmark political development, the Demokraatit (Democratic) Party has won Greenland’s parliamentary elections, held on 12th March, 2025, securing a decisive victory that will shape the island’s future, transforming the electoral politics of Greenland. The party achieved a significant victory by securing 29.9% of the vote, translating to 10 out of 31 seats in the Inatsisartut (Parliament). This marked a substantial increase from their previous standing, reflecting a notable shift in the electoral politics.
Naleraq, the opposition party, secured 24.5% of the vote, earning 8 seats. Inuit Ataqatigiit and Siumut, the former governing parties, took the third and fourth position, and experienced a decline, obtaining 21.4% and 14.7% of the vote, resulting in 7 and 4 seats respectively.
The election saw a voter turnout of approximately 70.9%, a 5-percentage point increase from the previous election, indicating heightened public engagement in Greenland’s political process.
Greenland, the world’s largest island, is located in the Arctic with a small population of around 56,000 people. It is known for its vast icy landscapes, stunning fjords, and rich indigenous culture. Greenland was a Danish colony until 1953, when it became an integrated part of Denmark. However, in 1979, Greenland gained home rule, allowing for greater self-governance. In the current scenario, Greenland’s political landscape is shaped by a strong desire for balancing economic development, especially in its resource-rich lands, with environmental sustainability.
The Demokraatit Party was formed in 2002, with the objective to create new governance model of economic development and social reform. They secured five seats in its inaugural election. It increased its representation to seven seats in 2005 but was later excluded from power when the “Northern Lights Coalition” was formed between Siumut, Inuit Ataqatigiit, and Atassut. In the 2009 elections, the party’s seat count dropped to four, but it managed to join a coalition government with Inuit Ataqatigiit and the Association of Candidates, displacing Siumut from power for the first time. The party’s fortunes fluctuated in subsequent elections, winning two seats in 2013, gaining two more in 2014, and adding another two in 2018. However, their representation fell to three seats in the 2021 elections. In the 2025 elections, Demokraatit achieved its best results to date.
Since its formation, the Demokraatit party advocates for substantial reforms aimed at boosting private enterprise, particularly in the mining sector, to enhance economic growth and self-sufficiency. The party aims to create a more self-sufficient economy, with an emphasis on developing the mining sector while maintaining a balance with environmental protection.
In addition to economic reforms, Demokraatit prioritises improving social welfare across Greenland, with a focus on enhancing healthcare, education, and housing systems to improve the quality of life for its citizens. As part of their broader vision, Demokraatit is committed to strengthening Greenland’s international relations, seeking to build partnerships with global markets and secure investments that will drive the country’s economic and social progress. The party’s agenda reflects a forward-looking approach, combining economic modernisation with social development.
As Greenland moves into this new political era, the Demokraatit Party’s victory is not just a national triumph but a message to the world that Greenland is ready to lead the charge on social reforms. The outcome of the election offers hope for a brighter future for the island and a stronger, more collaborative role on the world stage.
