Denmark Apologizes for 1970s Greenland IUD Scandal
Denmark's prime minister apologizes for forcibly inserting IUDs in thousands of Greenlandic women during the 1960s-70s. The scandal affected 4,500 women and deepened Denmark-Greenland tensions. Victims criticize the apology as political theater rather than genuine reconciliation.
Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen visits Greenland on Wednesday to formally apologize for the IUD scandal. During the 1960s and 1970s, approximately 4,500 Greenlandic women and girls received intrauterine devices, often without consent. The program aimed to limit birth rates in Greenland.
Greenland is a self-governing territory within the Kingdom of Denmark. This scandal has deepened tensions between the two nations. Many women were unaware they had IUDs inserted until years later.
One victim, Henriette Berthelsen, received an IUD when she was just 13 years old. She refuses to attend the apology ceremony, calling it political theater. Berthelsen believes the government's apology serves political purposes rather than addressing real suffering.
The Danish government faces criticism for delaying this apology for decades. This case highlights ongoing colonial tensions between Denmark and Greenland. The apology comes as Greenland seeks greater autonomy from Denmark.
Why did Denmark wait 50 years to address this injustice? The timing suggests political calculations behind the apology. Many victims have passed away without receiving recognition for their suffering.