Public Lecture: Greenland's Role in Arctic Security and Global Politics

A public lecture on Greenland in the Arctic, including security, domestic governance, and Greenlandic self-determination and sovereignty.

Greenland is at the center of growing geopolitical and security discussions as global powers increasingly turn their attention to the Arctic. With shifting governance frameworks, emerging technologies, and heightened strategic interest, Greenland’s future is deeply connected to broader Arctic security and governance challenges.

The recent elections saw the pro-business Demokraatit party win the most votes, advocating for a gradual approach to independence, while other parties continue to push for a faster break from Denmark, keeping the question of Greenlandic sovereignty at the forefront of political debate—an issue that gained global attention when former U.S. President Donald Trump controversially expressed interest in purchasing Greenland.

This talk will explore how geopolitical tensions, security concerns, and technological advancements are shaping the region. While Greenland’s recent elections provide a timely backdrop, the discussion will take a broader view of the Arctic’s role in international affairs, focusing on the intersection of governance, security, and technology. 

Discussion Topics:

• The implications of Greenland's election results on its path toward independence and self-determination.
• The impact of international interest, particularly from the United States, on Greenland's political and economic future.
• The role of Arctic governance and security in shaping Greenland's domestic and foreign policies.​
• The influence of technological developments on Arctic security and Greenland's strategic importance.

About the Speakers:
Christoph Humrich is an Assistant Professor of International Relations at the University of Groningen, specializing in Arctic security and governance. His research explores the fragmentation of Arctic environmental governance and the geopolitical challenges affecting regional stability.

Benjamin T. Johnson is an Assistant Professor of Humane Artificial Intelligence and International Relations at the University of Groningen. His research explores the intersection of technology, security, and governance in the Arctic, with a focus on how sociotechnical imaginaries shape security policies and technological development in the region. His recent work examines the use of sensing technologies in the Canadian Arctic and their implications for sovereignty, surveillance, and environmental monitoring.

Organisation:
This event is a collaboration between The Faculty of Arts and SIB Groningen