Publikationer

Research | Forskning - peer review

New approaches to microbiology education are needed to ensure equitable representation in microbiology and to build literacy in microbiology and science broadly. To address this goal, we developed a course held at the collegiate level that uniquely integrated microbiology, Indigenous studies, scienc… New approaches to microbiology education are needed to ensure equitable representation in microbiology and to build literacy in microbiology and science broadly. To address this goal, we developed a course held at the collegiate level that uniquely integrated microbiology, Indigenous studies, science and technology studies, and arts and performance. The course participants included students in 12 majors across science, engineering, humanities, and arts. The different disciplines of the course intersected around Inuit fermented foods as the basis for discussions on fundamental microbiological principles, the scientific method, food sovereignty, and Indigenous peoples’ rights. A diverse array of activities was included, ranging from lectures in microbiology and fermentation, a sauerkraut-making lab, a walk through the Native American contemplative garden, a workshop on Inuit drum making and dance, as well as a performance by Inuit-soul group Pamyua. We propose that a radically interdisciplinary approach and a human rights framework in microbiology education can be a way to enhance microbiology and science literacy for a diverse group of students. Læs mere

Research | Forskning - peer review

Greenland's abundant renewable energy resources position it as a potential producer of green hydrogen, a promising energy carrier for global decarbonization efforts. This research aims to evaluate the economic feasibility of hydrogen transportation in Greenland, focusing on compressed gas via pipeli… Greenland's abundant renewable energy resources position it as a potential producer of green hydrogen, a promising energy carrier for global decarbonization efforts. This research aims to evaluate the economic feasibility of hydrogen transportation in Greenland, focusing on compressed gas via pipelines and liquefied hydrogen via maritime routes. The study employs a comprehensive methodology that includes economic analysis of production, liquefaction, and transportation costs. This approach integrates a wide range of methods available in the literature and considers various components of the hydrogen supply chain, going beyond the typical focus on transportation strategies alone. Results indicate that pipelines are more cost-effective for shorter distances (<1,500 km) and higher demand, whereas shipping is better suited for longer distances and larger volumes. A case study of transporting hydrogen from Paamuit to Nuuk revealed that for a production capacity of 40 t/d, the cost of pipeline transport was 1.3 USD/kg, whereas for shipping it was 2.7 USD/kg. These findings contribute significantly to the development of a hydrogen economy and highlight Greenland's potential as a competitive player in the global green hydrogen market. The research provides valuable insights for decision-makers in planning efficient and economical hydrogen transportation strategies. Læs mere

Communication | Formidling

DR har med afpubliceringen af 'Grønlands hvide guld' ikke blot svækket pressefriheden, men også beskadiget Danmarks forhold til Grønland – et forhold, der ellers var begyndt at udvikle sig i en mere konstruktiv retning, skriver Ebbe Volquardsen.

Communication | Formidling

Greenland, Denmark & America - a triangular relation that augurs benefits for Greenlanders. If that's the case, then... What do Greenlanders think of Mr. Trump's ideas for their island? What do Greenland's indigenous peoples & environmentalists think of America? Why did Denmark change Gree… Greenland, Denmark & America - a triangular relation that augurs benefits for Greenlanders. If that's the case, then... What do Greenlanders think of Mr. Trump's ideas for their island? What do Greenland's indigenous peoples & environmentalists think of America? Why did Denmark change Greenland's status from colony to province? Can Greenland survive economically as an independent nation? What is it like to live in Greenland? How do Greenlanders travel in Greenland? Who are Greenlanders anyway? Finally, is Greenland really that big? Læs mere

Communication | Formidling

Greenland has found itself at the center of international attention, with renewed U.S. interest, shifting power dynamics with Denmark, and a growing push for independence. Associate Professor Ebbe Volquardsen from the University of Greenland unpacks the complexities of Greenland’s evolving political… Greenland has found itself at the center of international attention, with renewed U.S. interest, shifting power dynamics with Denmark, and a growing push for independence. Associate Professor Ebbe Volquardsen from the University of Greenland unpacks the complexities of Greenland’s evolving political landscape and discusses Greenland’s strategic future amid U.S. tensions and Denmark’s stance. What lies ahead for this Arctic nation? Læs mere

Communication | Formidling

The Kialaaq Drop-in Centre in Qaqortoq was established as a significant municipal initiative aimed at supporting vulnerable adults, including the homeless. Despite initial enthusiasm and governmental financial backing, the centre has frequently been inaccessible due to repeated closures, staffing is… The Kialaaq Drop-in Centre in Qaqortoq was established as a significant municipal initiative aimed at supporting vulnerable adults, including the homeless. Despite initial enthusiasm and governmental financial backing, the centre has frequently been inaccessible due to repeated closures, staffing issues, and inadequate planning. Problems were compounded by improper recruitment practices, insufficient staff training, unclear user guidelines, and safety concerns. These organisational shortcomings highlight systemic management deficiencies within the municipality. The case underlines the necessity for comprehensive planning, clear operational strategies, and qualified personnel in social service delivery, emphasising that effective social work requires meticulous preparation and structured implementation. Læs mere

Communication | Formidling

The Kialaaq Drop-in Centre in Qaqortoq was established as a significant municipal initiative aimed at supporting vulnerable adults, including the homeless. Despite initial enthusiasm and governmental financial backing, the centre has frequently been inaccessible due to repeated closures, staffing is… The Kialaaq Drop-in Centre in Qaqortoq was established as a significant municipal initiative aimed at supporting vulnerable adults, including the homeless. Despite initial enthusiasm and governmental financial backing, the centre has frequently been inaccessible due to repeated closures, staffing issues, and inadequate planning. Problems were compounded by improper recruitment practices, insufficient staff training, unclear user guidelines, and safety concerns. These organisational shortcomings highlight systemic management deficiencies within the municipality. The case underlines the necessity for comprehensive planning, clear operational strategies, and qualified personnel in social service delivery, emphasising that effective social work requires meticulous preparation and structured implementation. Læs mere

Research | Forskning - peer review

‘Mushy halibut syndrome’ (MHS) affects the quality of Greenland halibut fillets. Fillets affected by MHS are jelly-like and turn mushy when cooked. Different severities of MHS occur in commercial catches, and cause food wastage and economic losses due to a lack of detection tools. In this study, we… ‘Mushy halibut syndrome’ (MHS) affects the quality of Greenland halibut fillets. Fillets affected by MHS are jelly-like and turn mushy when cooked. Different severities of MHS occur in commercial catches, and cause food wastage and economic losses due to a lack of detection tools. In this study, we combined sensory evaluation, microscopy and chemical analysis to characterize and grade MHS in Greenland halibut fillets, and assessed hyperspectral imaging (HSI) as a non-invasive detection method. Fillets (n = 100) were sampled and sorted into five categories based on assessment of MHS severity using a sensory MHS grading system. Twenty fillets were assigned to each category. Fillets underwent HSI analysis (n = 100), chemical analysis (n = 40) and microscopy (n = 25). Microscopy revealed myofiber degeneration progressing with MHS severity. Average dry matter and oil content for normal fillets were 26.6%, and 10.4%, respectively, compared to 14.6% and 2.0% for fillets severely affected by MHS. The sensory evaluations demonstrated good consensus on MHS criteria but highlighted the challenges of relying on limited manual detection. Two hyperspectral models were tested: one model estimated chemical composition of fillets, while the other predicted the fillet area affected by MHS. Both showed high accuracy for detecting and grading MHS. Future work should involve larger data sets and sensory panels, fewer MHS categories and commercially relevant threshold values for dry matter and oil content. Effective grading of MHS-products could contribute to optimized utilization, development of new side-streams and reduced wastage in the fisheries. Læs mere

Research | Forskning

This policy paper explores how the changing international security situation gives rise to hybrid threats and associated security and defence governance challenges in the North Atlantic. It foresees that hybrid threats are likely to continue to form a central aspect of security and defence issues in… This policy paper explores how the changing international security situation gives rise to hybrid threats and associated security and defence governance challenges in the North Atlantic. It foresees that hybrid threats are likely to continue to form a central aspect of security and defence issues in the region in the short-to-midterm future. Written as an anthology, this policy paper examines and assesses seven hybrid threats to the North Atlantic, which are related to cybersecurity, economic security, food security, influence campaigns, telecommunication infrastructure, fisheries, and foreign policy. Læs mere

Research | Forskning

I den offentlige debat fylder forholdet til Danmark, USA og Kina oftest noget mere end EU. Denne artikel vil med udgangspunkt i de to EF-afstemninger i hhv. 1972 og 1982 argumentere for at denne politiske periode er helt central for at forstå den stigende internationale rolle, som Grønland aktuelt s… I den offentlige debat fylder forholdet til Danmark, USA og Kina oftest noget mere end EU. Denne artikel vil med udgangspunkt i de to EF-afstemninger i hhv. 1972 og 1982 argumentere for at denne politiske periode er helt central for at forstå den stigende internationale rolle, som Grønland aktuelt spiller i et foranderligt Arktis. Læs mere

Research | Forskning

Artiklen diskuterer de juridiske, politiske, sikkerhedspolitiske og økonomiske muligheder og udfordringer, der er forbundet med en Free Association-model for Grønland.

Research | Forskning

Workshop Report from the North American Arctic Security Workshop (NAASW) in May 2024. The series of workshops are co-convened by Nasiffik (Greenland), NAADSN (Canada), and the Ted Stevens Center (Alaska, US)

Research | Forskning - peer review

Arktisk Råd er dét regionale forum, som Grønland vægter højest. Derfor har de seneste års udfordringer og kriser i rådet og dets arbejdergrupper været af særlig både udfordrende og betydningsfuld karakter for Grønland. Denne artikel undersøger to cases af krisediplomati, hvor det daglige arbejde i… Arktisk Råd er dét regionale forum, som Grønland vægter højest. Derfor har de seneste års udfordringer og kriser i rådet og dets arbejdergrupper været af særlig både udfordrende og betydningsfuld karakter for Grønland. Denne artikel undersøger to cases af krisediplomati, hvor det daglige arbejde i Arktisk Råd har været sat under pres, nemlig under Corona-pandemien fra starten af 2020 og i forlængelse af Ruslands angrebskrig i Ukraine fra starten af 2022. Læs mere

Research | Forskning - peer review

The book, Foreign Policy in Greenland, sheds light on what kind of competencies Greenland has in IR and how Greenland undertakes foreign policy, while still being a self-governing territory underneath Danish jurisdiction. The book undertakes a systematic analysis of the foreign policy papers from 20… The book, Foreign Policy in Greenland, sheds light on what kind of competencies Greenland has in IR and how Greenland undertakes foreign policy, while still being a self-governing territory underneath Danish jurisdiction. The book undertakes a systematic analysis of the foreign policy papers from 2003-2023. What kind of acitivities are Greenland undertaken in international affairs? Can Greenland be an influential player in international relations? The book is of interest for those with an interest in international affairs and law as well as those with an interest in international politics and foreign policy. Læs mere

Research | Forskning - peer review

Greenland faces severe challenges with the recruitment and retention of health workers. A healthcare reform from 2010 did not have the expected effect. On this background we explored health worker perspectives on barriers and opportunities for improvements. To generate knowledge of opportunities and… Greenland faces severe challenges with the recruitment and retention of health workers. A healthcare reform from 2010 did not have the expected effect. On this background we explored health worker perspectives on barriers and opportunities for improvements. To generate knowledge of opportunities and challenges in delivering culturally relevant healthcare, and knowledge of conditions for developing a sustainable work environment. Interviews with healthcare staff from all regions were carried out and analysed within a hermeneuticphenomenological approach. Although better cohesion of healthcare and improved communication across health units was experienced, lack of support, training, and high staff turnover overloaded the permanent staff leading to staff flight and increased use of short-term health workers. Following a need among the population, health workers call for increased focus on health promotion. They request leadership that includes local knowledge and skills to prioritise, organise and develop culturally safe healthcare, based also on the perspectives of service users. Greenland has dedicated health workers holding local knowledge of significance for care and treatment. Prioritisation of health promotion is considered necessary and satisfactory but must be supported by strategic leadership. Further, a satisfactory work-life seems closely related to recruitment and retention. Læs mere

Communication | Formidling

Det grønlandske sundhedsvæsen har udfordringer med rekruttering og fastholdelse af uddannet personale, især sygeplejersker. Der rådes dog over en fast stab af grønlandsksproget personale med varierende uddannelser, disse er en forudsætning for at sundhedsvæsenet fungerer. Samtidig er der en ændring… Det grønlandske sundhedsvæsen har udfordringer med rekruttering og fastholdelse af uddannet personale, især sygeplejersker. Der rådes dog over en fast stab af grønlandsksproget personale med varierende uddannelser, disse er en forudsætning for at sundhedsvæsenet fungerer. Samtidig er der en ændring i sygdomsmønsteret i befolkningen, der kalder på mere sundhedsfremmende indsatser Kronikken slår til lyd for at lave en samlet uddannelsesplanlægning der omfatter befolkningens behov, faglig udvikling i daglig praksis i lokalområderne, stillingtagen til bemandingen på lokale enheder og så selvfølgelig formel uddannelse. De sidste er opbygget ud fra vestlig og biomedicinsk tænkning og kalder på kulturel tilpasning. Læs mere

Teaching | Undervisning

Kompendiet samler en række forskningsartikler publiceret i de grønlandske sygeplejerskers fagblad Tikiusaaq i perioden 2013-2019.

Research | Forskning - peer review

Nanorriutit are specialized dogs integral to traditional nanoq (polar bear) hunting in Avanersuaq (Thule district, North Green-land). This practice, involving a deep relationship between the piniartoq (hunter), the nanoq, and the qimmeq (dog), is a crucialaspect of Inughuit cultural heritage in the… Nanorriutit are specialized dogs integral to traditional nanoq (polar bear) hunting in Avanersuaq (Thule district, North Green-land). This practice, involving a deep relationship between the piniartoq (hunter), the nanoq, and the qimmeq (dog), is a crucialaspect of Inughuit cultural heritage in the region. However, the hunting culture associated with nanorriutit faces significantchallenges due to the contemporary lifestyle, urbanization and impacts of climate change, which are deteriorating the tradi-tional hunting grounds. This study aims to examine the evolving role of nanorriutit in polar bear hunting practices and thebroader cultural context of Avanersuaq. Utilizing a qualitative approach, data were collected through fourteen semi-structuredinterviews with thirteen knowledge holders from the settlement of Savissivik and the town of Qaanaaq, conducted in Inuktunand kalaallisut. The findings illustrate both the enduring significance of nanorriutit, and the adaptations required in responseto changing environmental conditions. This research contributes to the understanding of how the contemporary lifestyles andclimate change is influencing Inughuit hunting practices and emphasizes the need to preserve this valuable cultural traditionamidst a rapidly transforming Arctic urbanization and environment. Læs mere

Research | Forskning - peer review

The Qimmeq (Greenland sled dog) has worked continuously with the Inuit in Greenland for more than 800 years. However, they now face drastic population declines caused by climate change, urbanization, and competition from snowmobiles. This study sequenced 92 modern and ancient genomes to investigate… The Qimmeq (Greenland sled dog) has worked continuously with the Inuit in Greenland for more than 800 years. However, they now face drastic population declines caused by climate change, urbanization, and competition from snowmobiles. This study sequenced 92 modern and ancient genomes to investigate how centuries of isolation shaped the regional Qimmeq populations and the impact of European contact. We found distinct regional populations and evidence for two migrations of dogs into Greenland with the Inuit from Canada. Furthermore, we found that there is minimal European ancestry in present day Qimmit and limited recent inbreeding despite low heterozygosity. These insights are critical for conservation efforts aimed at preserving the Qimmit amid environmental changes and cultural transitions. Læs mere

Research | Forskning - peer review

In northern and western Greenland, human–qimmeq (Greenlandic sled dog, Canis lupus familiaris) relationships are evolving rapidly amid profound environmental and social change. Although the number of sled dog teams is declining, qimmit continue to play a vital role in Inuit and Kalaallit life—not on… In northern and western Greenland, human–qimmeq (Greenlandic sled dog, Canis lupus familiaris) relationships are evolving rapidly amid profound environmental and social change. Although the number of sled dog teams is declining, qimmit continue to play a vital role in Inuit and Kalaallit life—not only as working animals but as active participants in practices of knowledge sharing, care, and identity formation. Drawing on ethnographic fieldwork and interviews with hunters (piniartut), mushers, and cultural knowledge bearers, this article explores the contemporary roles of qimmit within Greenlandic society. It examines how these relationships support intergenerational transmission of cultural knowledge and belonging, while also negotiating tensions between lived practices and formal heritage frameworks. Situating qimmit within critical discussions of living heritage and human–animal relations, the article argues that qimmit are not merely cultural symbols, but relational beings embedded in adaptive, negotiated, and resilient practices central to Inuit and Kalaallit life. Læs mere

Research | Forskning

Langs iskanten og på gammel havis i Avanersuaq jager slædehunde (qimmit) og fangere (piniartut) fortsat side om side i en af de mest krævende jagtformer i Arktis – nanoqfangst. Denne artikel tager læseren med ind i det tætte samarbejde mellem menneske og hund, hvor nanorriutit – specialtrænede isbjø… Langs iskanten og på gammel havis i Avanersuaq jager slædehunde (qimmit) og fangere (piniartut) fortsat side om side i en af de mest krævende jagtformer i Arktis – nanoqfangst. Denne artikel tager læseren med ind i det tætte samarbejde mellem menneske og hund, hvor nanorriutit – specialtrænede isbjørnehunde – udgør kernen i Inughuit-fangstkulturen. Gennem mit feltarbejde og samtaler med traditionsbærere i Qaanaaq og Savissivik undersøger jeg, hvordan disse hunde opdrages og trænes. Samtidig ser jeg på, hvordan klimaforandringer og samfundsudvikling udfordrer denne dybt rodfæstede praksis. Artiklen viser, at nanorriutit er langt mere end fangstredskaber – de er bærere af både viden, vilje og værdighed. Læs mere

Research | Forskning

I Grønland, hvor klimaet er barskt og livsbetingelserne ekstreme, har mennesket i århundreder tilpasset sig naturens ressourcer for at overleve. En særlig fortælling om dette samspil omhandler hybridiseringen mellem slædehunde og ulve. Denne proces har givet Grønlands befolkning et af verdens mest h… I Grønland, hvor klimaet er barskt og livsbetingelserne ekstreme, har mennesket i århundreder tilpasset sig naturens ressourcer for at overleve. En særlig fortælling om dette samspil omhandler hybridiseringen mellem slædehunde og ulve. Denne proces har givet Grønlands befolkning et af verdens mest hårdføre dyr: ulvehunden. Gennem kombinationen af genetiske studier og kulturhistoriske beretninger får vi et nuanceret indblik i, hvordan ulvehundens udvikling har spillet en central rolle i Grønlands kulturhistorie og fangsttraditioner. Læs mere

Research | Forskning

The essay examines the unique and complex role of sled dogs, known as qimmeq (singular, plural: qimmit), in Greenlandic culture, particularly in the context of polar bear hunting. Focusing on the artworks of Jacob Danielsen (1888-1938), a Greenlandic hunter and self-taught artist, and Harald Moltke… The essay examines the unique and complex role of sled dogs, known as qimmeq (singular, plural: qimmit), in Greenlandic culture, particularly in the context of polar bear hunting. Focusing on the artworks of Jacob Danielsen (1888-1938), a Greenlandic hunter and self-taught artist, and Harald Moltke (1871-1960), a Danish painter who documented Greenlandic life, it highlights the regional variations and adaptations in hunting practices across Greenland. This exploration serves to contextualize Arctic environments through visual and material culture, illustrating how these artworks offer insights into the human-dog relationship, Inuit resilience, and survival strategies in the challenging Arctic landscape. Læs mere

Research | Forskning - peer review

In 2022, Greenland, Canada, Denmark reached a historic agreement on the long-standing boundary disputes regarding Hans Island/Tartupaluk. We discuss the historical context and the content of the bargaining solution.

Research | Forskning

Through the methodological approaches of case studies and process tracing analysis, the PhD thesis examines how relations between the United States (U.S.) (a superpower) and Greenland (portrayed in the analysis as a small State-like polity) affects Greenland’s self-determination in times of increase… Through the methodological approaches of case studies and process tracing analysis, the PhD thesis examines how relations between the United States (U.S.) (a superpower) and Greenland (portrayed in the analysis as a small State-like polity) affects Greenland’s self-determination in times of increased international focus and tension in the Arctic. Employing Putnam’s two-level game theory (1998), and action space theories (Mouritzen 2006, Petersen 2005), the three analytical articles of the thesis conclude that Greenland’s action space is ambiguous: Greenland has widened its action space in relation to Denmark through deliberate, direct negotiations with the U.S., while the action space is delimited by the greater overall geopolitical conditions affecting the U.S. interests in Greenland, as they change due to the homeland security interests of the U.S. The thesis examines how and when Greenland’s action space is widened or limited by external and internal factors in the trilateral Greenland-Denmark-U.S. relationship. The analysis furthermore discusses how the three parties engage in a new form of interlocking, two-level game, where Greenland and the U.S. engages more directly as opposed to Greenland formerly engaging Denmark from a subnational position. In the interlocking two-level game, Greenland is positioned equally to Denmark and the U.S., and by navigating well-known incentives for bargaining for win-sets, the three parties interlock each other in a new form of two-level game. This happens as each of their interests at level one (international negotiations) overlap, while each fulfils the interests of their constituents at level two (domestic level), making it possible to sign agreements. The thesis analyzes the increasingly direct cooperation and relationship between Greenland and the U.S., carved out as Greenland has demanded a greater say towards Denmark on foreign policy, security and defense affairs. The thesis analysis is based on case studies of events taking place from 2014 to 2021, where all three actors are at play in different ways. The analysis employs a rationalist theoretic approach to negotiations between Greenland and the U.S., and in some cases between Greenland, the U.S. and Denmark. The thesis includes a constructivist backdrop in the form of two chapters laying out the historical relationships between Greenland and Denmark, and between Greenland and the U.S. The first background chapter establishes the norms, roles and legitimacy of Greenland as an independent actor, while the second background chapter analyzes the relationship seen through the lens of U.S. securitization acts towards Greenland during the past two centuries. The empirical as well as theoretical findings of the thesis contribute to a better understanding of how Greenland has navigated its action space in times of increased geopolitical tension in the Arctic. It provides insight into the decision-making processes in Greenland’s engagements with the U.S. and Denmark, including the thinking behind its decisions and political aspirations. The process tracing analysis leads to a causal graph displaying the steps needed for Greenland to engage more directly and bilaterally with the U.S., but the question of Denmark’s involvement is a paradox in this new relationship because the need for Denmark’s involvement is viewed differently by the parties involved from case to case. The thesis concludes that Greenland is balancing a thin line of self-determination by testing its action space, and that Denmark, sometimes deliberately, sometimes not, supports Greenland’s wider room for maneuverings. The thesis includes a discussion of how this analysis contributes to a decolonial approach to International Relations (IR) studies by employing an understanding of Greenland acting as a State-like polity, engaging in negotiations analyzed with a rationalist approach that previously has been applied to sovereign States. It furthermore includes an outlook beyond the timeframe of the study, based on the expressions of U.S. geopolitical interests in Greenland taking place as the thesis was finalized in the spring of 2025. Læs mere

Communication | Formidling

Forud for Arktisk Råds tilblivelse i 1996 foregik der et omfattende arbejde mellem staterne, og ikke mindst af de arktiske oprindelige folk. Inuit Circumpolar Council (ICC), som repræsenterer Inuit i Kalaallit Nunaat (Grønland), Canada, Alaska og Chukotka (Rusland), spillede en central rolle i kampe… Forud for Arktisk Råds tilblivelse i 1996 foregik der et omfattende arbejde mellem staterne, og ikke mindst af de arktiske oprindelige folk. Inuit Circumpolar Council (ICC), som repræsenterer Inuit i Kalaallit Nunaat (Grønland), Canada, Alaska og Chukotka (Rusland), spillede en central rolle i kampen for, at Arktisk Råd kom til at inkludere oprindelige folk ved bordet. ICC’s arkiver giver et grundigt indblik drøftelserne internt i ICC, og mellem staterne og de andre oprindelige folk. Arktisk Råds unikke struktur med otte stater og seks oprindelige folks organisationer siddende om bordet, fuldt ud deltagende i alle beslutningsprocesser blev således udviklet gennem års forhandlinger. ICC og de andre oprindelige folks organisationer har fortsat deres aktive bidrag gennem de seneste års krise i Arktisk Råd, og peger på styrkelsen af oprindelige folks deltagelse som en af nøglerne til et fortsat aktivt Arktisk Råd, til gavn for alle arktiske folk. Læs mere