Denmark apologizes for decades-old forced birth control in Greenland

Denmark’s Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen issued a formal apology over a long-standing scandal in which thousands of Greenlandic girls and young women were fitted with intrauterine devices (IUDs) by Danish doctors, frequently without their consent.

“We cannot change what has happened. But we can take responsibility. Therefore, on behalf of Denmark, I would like to say: I’m sorry,” Frederiksen said in a written statement.

“Sorry to the girls and women who were subjected to systematic discrimination. Because they were Greenlanders. For the physical and psychological harm they suffered. For being betrayed,” she added.

According to Bloomberg, an investigation by Danish broadcaster DR revealed that in the late 1960s, approximately 4,500 of Greenland’s 9,000 fertile women were fitted with IUDs by Danish doctors, contributing to a dramatic drop in birth rates across the territory.

The so-called “coil case” has come to symbolise the discrimination faced by Greenlanders during Denmark’s direct control over the island, sparking resentment and renewed calls for redress. Some of the women have now filed a lawsuit against Denmark over the forced procedures.

By officially acknowledging responsibility, Frederiksen’s government may help ease longstanding grievances in Greenland and temper demands for full independence.

A government-commissioned investigation is expected next month, after which Denmark will address questions of possible financial compensation for the women affected.

By Aghakazim Guliyev