The Danish and Greenlandic governments will issue an official apology in the “spiral case,” a matter concerning unethical treatment of Greenlandic women. Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen personally informed Greenlandic MP Aaja Chemnitz of the decision, a call Chemnitz has long awaited.

Prime Minister Frederiksen released a statement taking responsibility on behalf of Denmark and apologizing for the unethical treatment of Greenlandic women regarding the use of IUDs. The Greenlandic government, Naalakkersuisut, will also issue an official apology.

Chemnitz, who personally knows several of the affected women, expressed being both moved and extremely happy about the apology from both governments. Chemnitz has encouraged the vulnerable Greenlandic women to sue the state to receive compensation, which she now anticipates will be forthcoming.

The Prime Minister’s statement indicates that the government is awaiting the completion of an official investigation into the spiral case. Following the publication of the investigation, the government plans to discuss measures and compensation with the Greenlandic government, Naalakkersuisut.

Chemnitz, a member of the Danish Parliament for 10 years, has observed a growing awareness of Denmark’s historical treatment of Greenland, culminating in this apology. She believes there is now a greater sensitivity towards historical cases and human rights violations than in the past.

The apology from Naalakkersuisut acknowledges that unethical spiral practices continued after Greenland assumed control of the health sector in 1992. Chemnitz views the shared responsibility as a sign of maturity.