Government Secures Compensation for Women Affected by Involuntary Contraception in Greenland
Naalakkersuisut has successfully allocated additional funds for the compensation of women who underwent involuntary contraception after 1992, the year when Greenland assumed control over its health sector. This announcement comes from the Department for Children, Youth, Justice, and Equality, which has confirmed the release of DKK 35 million specifically earmarked for a dedicated compensation scheme.
Mariane Paviasen Jensen, the Minister for Children, Youth, Justice, and Equality, expressed her satisfaction with the funding’s approval. “This is an acknowledgment of the gravity of this issue, and it is essential that we approach it with the respect and seriousness it deserves,” she stated in a press release. Jensen emphasized the profound injustices faced by many women and girls during that time, asserting that “the least we can offer is financial compensation, which, while not a complete remedy, we hope can provide some assistance in the healing process.”
Context of Involuntary Contraception Cases
In recent years, attention has turned to involuntary contraception following the fallout from the spiral scandal. A report released by the National Medical Board in March 2024 revealed that it is aware of at least 15 cases where women received involuntary contraception post-1991. Most of these instances—13 in total—occurred during surgical abortions. The cases span from 1993 to 2014 and are distributed across various regions of Greenland. KNR has previously interviewed several affected women, all of whom reported receiving contraception without consent while under anesthesia.
In October 2025, the Naalakkersuisut opened the door for women to apply for compensation, with eligible individuals entitled to up to DKK 300,000. Initially, the government anticipated processing all applications by February 1, 2026. However, the volume of applications has exceeded expectations, leading to a necessary postponement.
Funding Breakdown and Current Applications
The DKK 35 million designated for compensation has been funded through a health agreement between Greenland and Denmark, wherein Denmark committed DKK 185 million to healthcare initiatives in February. Despite a modest budget of DKK 4.5 million set aside initially—based on the 15 known cases—far more women have come forward than anticipated.
As of February, 111 women had submitted requests for benefits due to involuntary contraception after 1992. The government had previously identified about 15 cases, and the original funding would have equated to slightly over DKK 300,000 per woman. This figure aligns with the compensation sought by 143 women involved in the spiral scandal against the Danish state.
Application Process Details
Women who experienced involuntary contraception after 1992 can submit claims for compensation until the end of 2025. Applications are being managed by Frederiksen Law, which evaluates them based on established criteria. An expert group formed by the Department of Justice is assisting with this review process.
Notably, the former Minister of Justice, Naaja H. Nathanielsen, previously reported that a total of 209 applications were received. However, 92 cases were dismissed as they occurred before 1992, when Danish authorities were responsible for Greenland’s healthcare system.
A pathway for compensation from the Danish government exists for women affected by the involuntary use of the contraceptive device and the Depo Provera injection, with discussions around legislative measures paused during the recent general election. The new Danish government’s foundation has pledged to present a relevant bill “as soon as possible.”
As this crucial work continues, many women await justice and closure regarding their painful experiences.