King Frederik’s Role as a Unifying Force in Greenland
King Frederik will arrive in Nuuk, the capital of Greenland, on Wednesday morning, and his presence is expected to serve as a unifying force for the entire Kingdom of Denmark. This insight comes from historian Emma Rønberg Paaske, who emphasizes the significance of the king’s visit amid the changing political climate.
This upcoming trip marks King Frederik’s third visit to Greenland since he ascended to the throne in January 2024. His frequent travels to the northern reaches of the Kingdom can be traced back to concerns sparked by former U.S. President Donald Trump’s vocal interest in Greenland, which has unsettled many residents.
“It is crucial,” Paaske explains, “that the king, who also holds the title of king of Greenland, steps forward to ensure everything is as it should be and to instill hope during these turbulent times.”
While the Danish monarchy operates under a constitutional framework that limits political engagement, Paaske highlights the concept of “soft power,” suggesting that the king can act as a symbol of unity within the Commonwealth.
A Connection to the Greenlandic People
Although King Frederik has not directly linked his Greenland visit to American interests or Trump’s controversial remarks—largely due to the political limitations he faces—he has made it clear that he and Queen Mary are attuned to the pressures facing Greenland. During a press conference in Lithuania at the end of January, he remarked, “We feel a lot for the Greenlandic people, and what has happened in Greenland in recent weeks has affected us deeply.”
The relationship between Greenland and the Danish royal family dates back to 1921 when King Christian X made the first official visit to the island. Since then, successive monarchs have maintained a close connection with its people.
A Monarch with Deep Roots
King Frederik’s bond with Greenland is particularly significant. He has visited extensively, both in his youth and as an adult, serving not just as a state figure but also as a naval officer and adventurer—most notably during the “Expedition Sirus 2000,” a 2,500-kilometer sled journey.
According to Paaske, he has established a unique rapport with the Greenlanders, making him one of the most beloved monarchs in the kingdom’s history. “This connection is undoubtedly beneficial,” she says. “He knows the country and its people well, and they have expressed a desire for greater attention from him during this critical time.”
“As a result, it’s only natural that he makes this visit,” she concludes.
In an era of uncertainty, King Frederik’s journey to Greenland reflects not only his commitment to the island and its residents but also underlines the significance of royal engagement in fostering unity across the Kingdom.