On 22 May 2026, the Vienna Institute for Global Studies (VIGS), together with the Vienna School of International Studies (Diplomatische Akademie Wien) and the Austrian Institute for European and Security Policy (AIES), hosted a high-level discussion examining the geopolitical implications of a potential U.S. acquisition of Greenland. The event attracted more than 100 participants in person at the Diplomatische Akademie Wien, while over 400 viewers followed the discussion via livestream.
The discussion brought together leading experts, academics, policymakers, journalists, and representatives from Greenland to examine the future of Arctic security, NATO cohesion, European strategic autonomy, international law, and the growing strategic importance of the Arctic region.
Welcome remarks were delivered by Amb. Dr. Martin Eichtinger, Director of the Diplomatische Akademie Wien, who highlighted the Arctic’s increasing geopolitical significance in light of climate change, emerging trade routes, military competition, and growing global interest in critical raw materials.
Opening remarks were given by Dr. Zoltan Acs, Director of the Vienna Institute for Global Studies, who reflected on the broader global transformations shaping international politics, technology, and security, emphasising the importance of interdisciplinary dialogue in addressing geopolitical challenges.
The discussion was moderated by Michael Zinkanell-Süss, Director of the Austrian Institute for European and Security Policy, who underlined that the Greenland debate reflects broader questions concerning European security, multilateralism, sovereignty, and the resilience of the international order.
The keynote address was delivered online by Kenneth R. Rosen, independent journalist, war correspondent, and author of Polar War: Submarines, Spies, and the Struggle for Power in a Melting Arctic. Rosen provided historical and geopolitical context on the Arctic and Greenland’s strategic relevance, describing how climate change, military competition, and resource interests are transforming the Arctic into a key arena of global power politics. He also warned against narratives that reduce Greenland to a purely strategic asset, emphasising the importance of respecting international law and the interests of Greenland’s population.
The panel discussion featured:
- Ms. Kathrine Bødker (Greenland), Executive Council Member of the Inuit Circumpolar Council, Greenland
- Dr. Lassi Heininen (Finland), Professor Emeritus and Arctic expert
- Dr. Jens Wendel Hansen (Denmark), Senior Researcher at Aarhus University
One of the most impactful interventions came from Kathrine Bødker, who reminded the audience that Greenland is not simply a geopolitical object or a territory rich in natural resources, but above all “a home” for its people. Stressing the importance of self-determination and indigenous rights, she cautioned against external actors discussing Greenland primarily through the lens of ownership, control, or military strategy.
“Greenland is not just a brick of ice. Greenland is not just a place with snow. It is a home.” — Kathrine Bødker
Dr. Jens Wendel Hansen addressed the historical and legal dimensions of Greenland’s status within the Kingdom of Denmark, emphasising Greenland’s extensive self-government and democratic representation. He argued that any challenge to Greenland’s sovereignty would have profound implications for international law and the principles underpinning European security since the Second World War.
“If you cannot count on international law and respect for sovereignty, then what Europe has been based on since the Second World War is seriously at risk.” — Dr. Jens Wendel Hansen
Professor Lassi Heininen provided a broader Arctic perspective, arguing that despite rising geopolitical tensions, the Arctic has historically remained one of the world’s most peaceful regions. He stressed the importance of maintaining dialogue, cooperation, and multilateral frameworks such as the Arctic Council in order to prevent further escalation and preserve regional stability.
Throughout the evening, the discussion repeatedly returned to questions surrounding NATO solidarity, European strategic autonomy, the future of transatlantic relations, and the risks posed by weakening respect for sovereignty and international law. Speakers highlighted that the debate over Greenland serves as a wider stress test for the international system and for Europe’s ability to respond cohesively to emerging geopolitical challenges.
At the conclusion of the event, copies of Kenneth R. Rosen’s book Polar War: Submarines, Spies, and the Struggle for Power in a Melting Arctic were made available in exchange for a donation, offering participants an opportunity to engage more deeply with the topic and take home a compelling account of the Arctic’s emerging strategic importance.
