The Kingdom of Denmark
Time required: approx. 2–3 lessons (2–3 × 45 minutes)
A word with meaning
“The Kingdom of Denmark” is a term many adults use. It appears in the news and is often used without really being explained. You may have heard it before. Maybe not. But what does “The Kingdom of Denmark” mean for young people in the three countries? First, a few facts.
About The Kingdom of Denmark – in short
The Kingdom of Denmark is a cooperation between Greenland, the Faroe Islands and Denmark. The three countries are historically connected and share the same monarch, King Frederik X. The Kingdom of Denmark is also called The Danish Realm. Greenland and the Faroe Islands, like Denmark, are part of the Danish Constitution. The Constitution is based on democracy and rights, such as:
- Freedom of speech (the right to express your opinions freely).
- Freedom of religion (the right to choose your beliefs – or none at all).
At the same time, Greenland and the Faroe Islands have self-government. This means they make their own decisions in several areas, such as:
- Education.
- Nature, environment and fishing.
- Culture.
Denmark is responsible for shared areas such as:
- Defence.
- Foreign policy (relations with other countries)
- Currency (Danish kroner).
Even though responsibilities are divided, Denmark, Greenland and the Faroe Islands cooperate in many areas – for example, defence, international agreements, education and cultural projects.
Different opinions about the Kingdom of Denmark
In all three countries, there are different opinions about the Kingdom of Denmark. Some people in Greenland and the Faroe Islands believe the cooperation provides security and strength because the countries can support each other. Others are more critical. They feel the cooperation has not always been equal, and that Greenland and the Faroe Islands have not always been treated as equally important. There have been times when Greenland did not have enough influence on decisions. This has led some people today to want more independence – or even full independence. Equality means meeting each other with respect and having influence over your own future. This is a very important topic in the debate.
Denmark and Greenland are in conflict with the USA
Since Christmas 2024, Denmark and Greenland have been in a political conflict with the USA, due to the USA’s interest in taking control of Greenland. This created debate, because Greenland is part of the Kingdom of Denmark – and not something other countries can decide over. Both Denmark and Greenland have clearly stated that it is Greenland itself that decides its future.
The Faroe Islands and independence
Independence means that a country decides on its own:
- Laws
- Economy
- Defence
- Foreign policy
Five out of six political parties (2026) in the Faroe Islands support increased independence – especially in foreign policy. While Greenland and Denmark have received most of the attention in recent years, the Faroe Islands are slowly moving towards more independence.
Why is it important to know about the Kingdom of Denmark?
You might be thinking: “Why is this important?” Here are some answers:
Because we often think we know – without really knowing
Prejudices don’t usually come from bad intentions. They often come from not knowing each other. We guess, hear half-stories, see headlines or memes, and believe “others” live very different lives. When we learn each other’s real stories, it becomes harder to judge – and easier to understand.
Because the Arctic matters
Greenland, the Faroe Islands and the Arctic are important globally. Not only because of climate change and melting ice, but also because of politics, resources and power. This affects young people in the Kingdom of Denmark – and your future.
Disagreement and community
There are different opinions about the future of the Kingdom of Denmark. Some want more independence. Others value cooperation. When the USA showed interest in Greenland, many people started talking about something else: the importance of standing together. Even if there is disagreement, people can agree on one thing: each country should decide its own future. A community can include disagreement – as long as it is based on respect and equality.
Because you are the next generation
In a few years, it will be you who:
- Vote and have influence
- Make decisions
- Meet each other in education and work
- Cooperate across countries
The better you understand each other now, the easier it will be in the future.
Grind
Traditional hunting of pilot whales (a type of dolphin), which takes place in the Faroe Islands. It is an event where the whales are driven towards selected beaches and bays to be killed. The meat and blubber are then distributed free of charge or sold locally to the people in the area where the hunt took place.
Ólavsøka
The national day of the Faroe Islands, celebrated every year on 28 and 29 July. The holiday marks the death of the Norwegian king Olaf the Holy in 1030 and brings together culture, politics and religion. The celebrations mainly take place in the capital, Tórshavn, where the streets are filled with people wearing traditional Faroese national clothes.Tórshavn, where the streets are filled with people wearing traditional Faroese national clothes.
Faroese dance
Faroese dance and song are an important part of Faroese cultural heritage, best known through the traditional chain dance and the accompanying ballads. This form of dance is a living tradition that dates back to the Middle Ages and has been preserved in the Faroe Islands, while it has disappeared in the rest of Europe.
Areas of responsibility
Greenland and the Faroe Islands are self-governing parts of the Kingdom of Denmark. They make their own laws and manage most areas of responsibility, including healthcare, education, fisheries and the environment. Denmark is responsible for defence, the police, the courts, currency and foreign policy.
Watch the video. Theme 1 – The Kingdom of Denmark
The video lasts 3:37 minutes
Talk together about the text, fact boxes and video
- Was there anything you learned, that you didn’t know before?
- What does the term “The Kingdom of Denmark” mean?
- What does the term “The Kingdom of Denmark” mean to you personally?
Tasks – Theme 1
(Remember to save your answers – you will need them later)
Tasks – Theme 1
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