On Friday, Greenland’s Naalakkersuisut unveiled a contentious plan for military rearmament, a move that has drawn sharp criticism from Avaaraq Olsen, the mayor of Kommuneqarfik Sermersooq. Olsen expressed her dismay at being blindsided by the announcement of a new office for the Arctic Command and a naval wharf intended for Defense ships in Nuuk—details she was not privy to prior to their public disclosure.
She voiced her concern that such developments are fueling anxiety among residents about military rearmament. “I can only imagine the unease it could cause if I were to admit I was unaware of these plans,” she remarked.
### Key Measures in Arctic Package 2
In a sweeping investment of DKK 27.4 billion, Denmark aims to bolster its defenses in the Arctic and North Atlantic. Among the key initiatives are:
– Establishing a submarine cable linking Greenland and Denmark.
– Allocating DKK 2.1 billion for drones aimed at combat and surveillance purposes.
– Acquiring two additional Arctic ships and specialized maritime patrol aircraft.
– Building a new headquarters for the Arctic Command in Nuuk.
– Forming a new Arctic unit under the Arctic Command.
These moves are part of a wider strategy to enhance situational awareness in regions where the Armed Forces may assist local authorities.
Previous criticisms, including those from the Naleraq party, suggest that such military facilities could transform Nuuk and its residents into potential targets in the event of conflict. Olsen concurs with this perspective, asserting, “This increased militarization does contribute to a sense of vulnerability.”
### A Focus on Security
Throughout her comments, Olsen emphasized the importance of security—not just in a military sense, but in fostering a sense of safety within the community. While she is not outright opposed to rearmament, she insists it should be approached in a way that does not instill fear among the populace. Reflecting on the summer’s military exercises, she noted that while the authorities maintained open communication, many elderly citizens expressed distress, fearing the onset of war.
She expressed concern that the latest agreements signal more about security concerns than actual safety for citizens. “So far, these measures have not translated into increased safety for our residents, and it seems higher authorities may have overlooked this,” she pointed out.
### The Need for Dialogue
Olsen stressed the necessity for the top political figures within the municipality to be informed before such significant announcements are made. “As mayor, I understand the importance of considering public sentiment in these matters,” she noted.
In her view, the symbolic aspects of the rearmament should not overshadow community cohesion. She described instances where Armed Forces personnel in uniform were noticeable in the city, inadvertently creating an atmosphere that could fracture community ties. “These are small yet impactful details. If they donned civilian clothing, they might blend in more seamlessly, and the public might not feel an acute awareness of our military posture,” she stated.
### Engaging with the Arctic Command
In a bid to address these issues, Olsen has reached out for a meeting with local political figures to gain clarity on the plans for the new naval facilities. “We are responsible for shaping our city’s future,” she affirmed, insisting that municipal leadership must have a say in the development direction.
She remains hopeful that a dialogue can be established to explore the practical implications of this new quay and the Arctic Command’s presence. “It’s essential to address these foundational concerns before we can establish a path forward,” she concluded.
Olsen’s meeting with Vivian Motzfeldt (S) and Jens-Frederik Nielsen (D) is scheduled for Thursday, where she plans to push for greater involvement from the municipal board in guiding Nuuk’s development amidst these military enhancements.