What's Happening?
Greenland is actively working to strengthen its research environment, with a new report, 'Research in Greenland,' providing a comprehensive overview of research activities from 2015 to 2024. The report, produced by the Centre for Research Analysis at
Aarhus University for Arctic Hub, aims to inform research policy priorities. It reveals that while Canada and the U.S. have historically conducted the majority of research in Greenland, there has been a significant decline in U.S. research between 2022 and 2024. The Nordic countries, particularly Denmark, Norway, and Sweden, are emerging as the most frequent collaborators with Greenlandic researchers. Despite the presence of 5,000 to 6,000 international researchers, Greenlandic researchers account for only about five percent of the total. A key concern highlighted is that only 10 percent of all research involves a Greenlandic partner, leading to a perception among some residents of 'research fatigue' where their knowledge is shared without clear benefits or understanding of the research's use.
Why It's Important?
This shift in research partnerships and Greenland's proactive stance on strengthening its research environment holds significant geopolitical and scientific importance. The decline in U.S. research in Greenland could alter the balance of scientific influence and access to critical Arctic data, which is vital for understanding global climate change and its impacts. As Greenland is geographically part of North America but geopolitically linked to Europe through Denmark, its research collaborations have broader implications for international scientific cooperation and strategic interests in the Arctic. The emphasis on Nordic collaboration suggests a strengthening of regional ties and a potential reorientation of scientific focus. For the U.S., a reduced presence in Greenlandic research could mean less direct access to unique Arctic research opportunities and insights, potentially affecting its understanding of climate dynamics and strategic interests in the region. Greenland's desire to ensure research benefits its society directly addresses issues of scientific colonialism and promotes more equitable and locally relevant research outcomes.
What's Next?
Greenland aims to build up its research capacity, with a focus on increasing the number of PhD students and fostering more international collaborations, particularly with Canada and the Nordic countries. The report is intended to facilitate a meaningful democratic dialogue about research in Greenland and elevate research on the national agenda. Mari Kleist, Rector of Ilisimatusarfik (University of Greenland) and chair of the Research Council of Greenland, emphasizes the importance of developing knowledge relevant to Greenlandic society and strengthening its position in both national and international research collaborations. The goal is not to choose between North America and the Nordic countries but to strengthen collaborations in both directions, ensuring Greenland's voice is amplified in an international context. This suggests future initiatives will focus on capacity building, equitable partnerships, and research that directly addresses Greenlandic societal needs, moving beyond a sole focus on climate science.
Beyond the Headlines
Beyond the immediate scientific and geopolitical implications, the report uncovers deeper societal and cultural dimensions of research in Greenland. The observation that 'Greenland is a research laboratory for foreign researchers' highlights a historical imbalance where external interests often drive research agendas, particularly in natural sciences (64% of research). This contrasts with Greenlandic researchers' focus on socially relevant topics like health, politics, and sociology. The concept of 'research fatigue' among residents, who feel they share knowledge without receiving tangible benefits or understanding the research's purpose, points to a need for more community-engaged and participatory research models. The report advocates for research that is not only scientifically sound but also culturally sensitive and directly beneficial to the local population. This shift could lead to a more inclusive and impactful research ecosystem, where indigenous knowledge and local perspectives are integrated, fostering greater trust and collaboration between researchers and the communities they study. The geopolitical context, with Greenland's self-governance within the Kingdom of Denmark, further complicates these dynamics, as it navigates its identity and strategic partnerships in a rapidly changing Arctic.
