Ilisimatusarfik Halts New Collaborations with the USA
Greenland’s Nature Institute isn’t the only institution reevaluating its partnerships with the United States; Ilisimatusarfik has also taken a significant step in this direction. Principal Mari Kleist has confirmed the university’s cautious approach to new collaborations.
“Our stance has been consistent,” Kleist explains. “Since last year, we have been particularly careful not to initiate new partnerships. However, we are continuing the projects that we already have in place.”
Kleist acknowledges that some of Ilisimatusarfik’s students are required to study abroad, necessitating existing collaborations with universities for exchange programs. “We have a responsibility to ensure that our students have access to these opportunities,” she says. “It’s equally vital that our students do not find themselves in precarious or inappropriate situations.”
The decision to tighten these collaboration protocols was made independently by Ilisimatusarfik and was not prompted by external pressures from governmental departments or intelligence agencies. “We have made this decision ourselves and are in ongoing communication with relevant authorities,” Kleist emphasizes. “Given the current climate, it creates a cloud of uncertainty surrounding aspects we cannot control, so we believe a precautionary approach is warranted.”
Heightened Security Measures
As reported by KNR, the level of security at universities is now considered higher than it was during the Cold War, according to insights from the Norwegian Science and Technology Association. While the focus used to be mainly on nations like Russia, China, and Iran, concerns have now shifted to include the USA—specifically regarding its interests in Greenland.
Kleist reassures that there’s a strong collaboration with the Naalakkersuisut, various departments, and the Police Intelligence Service concerning screening processes for potential partnerships. “We fully understand the necessity of these measures and recognize the world we currently navigate,” she notes. “We must be discerning about whom we choose to work with. Each collaboration is scrutinized for its purpose.”
While Kleist prefers comprehensive assessments for every new project, she acknowledges there are instances where the process may not be as intensive—particularly with established relationships between certain nations or institutions.
A Call for Normalized Conditions
Recent reports highlighting U.S. interest in Greenlandic research have prompted Kleist to reflect on their current standing. However, she notes that the volume of outreach from the U.S. has not significantly changed.
Despite their reservations, she states that the university’s approach to new collaborations hinges on concrete evaluations. “If, for example, our colleagues in Alaska wish to engage in a research project centered on Inuit culture, we would carefully assess the context and relationships involved,” she explains.
“We generally trust other universities in the Arctic region. While we can’t predict every potential complication, many decisions will be made case by case as circumstances develop. Fundamentally, we feel it’s prudent not to start any new initiatives until the situation stabilizes to a more normalized condition that we deem safe.”