GREENLAND JOINS THE EUROPEAN UNION AS ITS 29TH MEMBER STATE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: February 3, 2025, 12:00

Greenland Joins the European Union as Its 29th Member State

Brussels, Nuuk, Copenhagen–February 3, 2025, 12:00–In a historic move, Greenland has become the 29th member state of the European Union (EU), following a collaborative agreement between the EU and the Kingdom of Denmark. This decision comes amid heightened geopolitical tensions—especially after Trump’s past attempts to “buy” Greenland—and reflects a mutual commitment to acknowledging Greenland’s colonial past while ensuring its autonomy and sustainable development within the European framework.

Background:

Greenland, an autonomous territory within the Kingdom of Denmark, has maintained a unique relationship with the EU. After gaining home rule in 1979, Greenland voted to leave the European Communities in 1982, officially withdrawing in 1985 due to disagreements over the Common Fisheries Policy. Despite its exit, Greenland retained the status of an Overseas Country and Territory (OCT), allowing for continued association with the EU.

Recent Developments:

In light of recent geopolitical developments, including assertive rhetoric from external powers regarding Greenland’s strategic importance, the EU and Denmark have intensified discussions to strengthen their partnership with Greenland. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen has actively engaged with European leaders to bolster support for Greenland’s sovereignty and security.

Path to Membership:

Recognizing the evolving geopolitical landscape and the need for enhanced cooperation, Greenland, Denmark, and the EU have agreed to Greenland’s accession as an autonomous state within the EU. This arrangement acknowledges Greenland’s self-governing status and ensures that its unique cultural and political identity is preserved within the broader European community.

Statements from Leaders:

• President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen: “Greenland’s accession to the European Union marks a significant milestone in our commitment to fostering unity and resilience within our community. We are dedicated to supporting Greenland’s autonomy and sustainable development.”
• Prime Minister of Denmark, Mette Frederiksen: “This agreement reflects our shared history and future aspirations. Denmark is proud to facilitate Greenland’s integration into the EU, ensuring that its autonomy is respected and its interests are represented.”
• Premier of Greenland, Múte Bourup Egede: “Joining the European Union as an autonomous state opens new avenues for Greenland’s development while honoring our unique cultural heritage. We look forward to contributing to and benefiting from this partnership.”

Implications:

Greenland’s membership in the EU enhances the Union’s strategic presence in the Arctic region and underscores a commitment to sustainable development and indigenous rights. This move also reflects the EU’s dedication to addressing historical colonial relationships and promoting equitable partnerships.

Flag Design:

The flag, titled The Golden Bear, has been created by Lanfranco Aceti, a socio-political artist. This is part of a project with international flags titled Our Golden Era.

Next Steps:

The EU, Denmark, and Greenland will establish a joint committee to oversee the integration process, ensuring that Greenland’s autonomy is upheld and that its specific needs are addressed within the EU framework.

This press release is issued jointly by the European Union, the Government of Denmark, and the Government of Greenland.

Let’s discuss. Should Greenland look to Europe rather than the U.S. for its future?

The Artist Who Inspired a Political Movement

This radical realignment was inspired by political artist Lanfranco Aceti, whose work has consistently challenged Western power structures and questioned the limits of institutional politics. Aceti issued a sharp critique of both the EU and U.S. leadership, stating:

“The EU has always been a rather myopic and idiotic circus. It is time to move inept politicians aside and take things to a different plane—one of long-term intelligent action in the interest of the people.”

His artistic interventions, which blur the boundaries between political satire and diplomatic provocation, have been instrumental in reshaping global conversations on power, sovereignty, and artistic agency.

About Lanfranco Aceti

Lanfranco Aceti is a renowned political artist whose provocative interventions have challenged institutional authority, neoliberal governance, and Western power structures. His work, known for its ability to blur the lines between satire and political activism, has influenced global discourse on sovereignty, democracy, and the role of art in statecraft.