Ilisimatusarfik, the University of Greenland, will host a discussion on October 29 examining how military installations could contribute to Greenland’s economy and provide infrastructure that civilians can also use.
The event, organized by Nasiffik, the university’s Center for Foreign and Security Policy, will feature Ulrik Pram Gad, a senior researcher at the Danish Institute for International Studies (DIIS). It takes place in the university auditorium in Nuuk from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. local time and will be conducted in Danish.
Titled “Military Bases: Isolation, National Economic Growth, or Local ‘Dual Use’?”, the discussion comes as the September defense agreement between Greenland, Denmark and the United States identifies Mestersvig and Narsarsuaq as potential new defense areas. The university’s announcement notes that the precise conditions for each still need to be negotiated.
The discussion will consider different approaches to military facilities, including keeping them separate from civilian communities, securing economic contributions and arranging shared military and civilian use.
According to the organizers, experience at Pituffik shows that local access can become a secondary consideration. They argue that benefits for communities require firm agreements in advance and continuing local involvement.
About Ulrik Pram Gad
Gad’s background combines academic research with government experience. He holds a doctorate in political science from the University of Copenhagen and worked for Greenland’s Home Rule government in Nuuk from 1998 to 2002, including as head of its foreign affairs office. His research focuses on Greenland–Denmark relations, sovereignty and Arctic security.
In his writing, Gad has emphasized Greenland’s right to define its own interests and develop international relationships beyond Denmark. He has criticized Danish assumptions about deciding Greenland’s future, as well as President Donald Trump’s arguments for acquiring the island.
He has also recognized the need for improved Arctic surveillance, while warning that military expansion without a clear security rationale could increase tensions.
His experience and willingness to scrutinize both Danish and American policy should make for a worthwhile discussion about how military investment can serve Greenland’s own priorities.
The October 29 discussion will draw on a new analysis scheduled for publication in Greenlandic and English before the event. Further details are available Linkedin and Facebook
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