The BRICS TimesDenmark’s Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen issued an apology to Greenland’s women for forced sterilization practices. Between 1966 and 1991, thousands of women were fitted with contraceptive devices without consent to restrict population growth. Denmark has now created a fund to provide compensation.
Denmark’s Prime Minister Issues Public Apology
In the Greenlandic capital Nuuk, Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen publicly apologized to the women and girls who were sterilized without consent. This apology followed revelations from a recent investigation that exposed forced sterilizations carried out under former Danish governments.
From 1966 to 1991, thousands of Greenlandic women and girls were given intrauterine devices (IUDs) without their knowledge or permission. Some of the girls were only 12 years old. At that time, Denmark controlled Greenland’s health system. This responsibility was transferred to local authorities in 1992. The incident became known as the spiral case. The sterilization campaign aimed to control Greenland’s population and is now considered racial discrimination.
Case Emerged After Lawsuit and Investigation
The issue resurfaced when 143 women filed a lawsuit against Denmark, accusing the government of violating their rights. Denmark carried out a two-year investigation before releasing a detailed report.
The report, published in September, revealed that by 1970 at least 4,070 women had IUDs inserted without consent. It also documented 410 severe cases, where women suffered abdominal pain, infections, and even infertility.
Prime Minister Frederiksen stated, “We cannot build a better relationship without acknowledging the mistakes of our past.” She added that the apology was not only about accepting mistakes but also about rebuilding trust for the future. Denmark has now created a special fund to compensate victims. The women have demanded around 5.8 million euros (₹52.2 crore). However, the timeline for compensation has not been announced.
Why the Apology Matters
Lawyer Naja Lyberth, who represents several victims, welcomed the apology. She said it would help Greenlandic people heal from painful memories. The apology also reflects Denmark’s effort to improve relations with Greenland.
This is not the first time Denmark has expressed regret. In 2020, the Danish government apologized for relocating children from Greenland to Denmark as part of a project.
In recent years, after former US President Donald Trump expressed interest in buying Greenland, Denmark has focused more on strengthening ties with the region. The government now hopes to heal old wounds and increase mutual trust.
Greenland’s Struggle for Autonomy
Greenland has remained under Danish control since 1721. Though not fully independent, Greenland has achieved significant self-governing powers. In 1979, Denmark granted Greenland home rule, giving authority over several domestic matters.
In 2009, the Greenland Self-Government Act extended greater autonomy. Greenland gained the right to draft its own laws, manage natural resources, and operate its justice system. However, Denmark still controls critical areas such as foreign policy and defense. Greenland continues to function as part of Denmark but with growing self-rule.
