Seeking Community Consent for Resource Development in Greenland

Abstract

One of the major topics in Greenland’s politics in recent years has been the decision to develop, or not, some of the most abundant deposits of rare earth elements (REEs) on the planet. The upsides are plenty: less dependence on the Danish block grant, increased independence for Greenland, strategic alliances with Western nations and more. However, there are also downsides, such as destroying some of the little arable land Greenland has, disrupting ways of life, threatening food security, and putting more pressure on the healthcare system with new workers and maybe even unexpected illnesses from mining pollution. But how do Greenlanders feel about these changes? And do the consultation processes listen to their opinions?

Keywords

• fieldwork report english