Björk responds to Trump’s threats to Greenland and sends a message to Denmark: “It’s too brutal”
The Icelandic singer has encouraged the people of Greenland to “declare their independence” from Denmark.
Icelandic singer Björk has publicly expressed solidarity with Greenland and voiced support for the territory’s push for independence — a message widely interpreted as a reaction to recent geopolitical threats involving President Trump.
In a thread posted on X, the artist reflected on the shared colonial history linking Denmark, Iceland, and Greenland, and called out abuses that continue to echo today.
“I wish all Greenlanders blessing in their fight for independence,” Björk wrote, noting that Iceland broke away from Denmark in 1944 and preserved its own language. “My children would be speaking Danish now,” she added.
Björk also referenced the forced‑contraception scandal that took place between 1966 and 1970, when roughly 4,500 girls — some as young as 12 — were given intrauterine devices (IUDs) without their knowledge. “They’re my age and younger… with no children,” she said, adding, “Even today, Danes treat Greenlanders as if they were second‑class human beings.”
The singer went on to highlight more recent cases from 2025 involving Greenlandic children being separated from their families, criticizing the fact that such practices persist. Björk described the situation as “too brutal,” warning about the danger of moving “from one colonizer to another” without structural changes that ensure justice and respect.
She ended her message with an Icelandic phrase — “úr öskunni í eldinn” (translation: “out of the ashes and into the fire”) — followed by a direct call to Greenlanders: “Declare independence!”
Political context
Greenland has been an autonomous territory within the Kingdom of Denmark since 2009. Despite its self‑government, full independence remains a complex issue tied to economic viability, security concerns, and the management of natural resources.
Björk’s comments also align with her long-standing artistic and activist work. She previously dedicated her song “Declare Independence” to territories such as Greenland and the Faroe Islands, advocating for the right of communities to self‑determination and emphasizing the need to address historical injustices.
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