The Danish and Greenlandic governments will issue an official apology in the spiral case, a move welcomed by Greenlandic MPs and seen as a step towards compensation for affected women. Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen personally informed Greenlandic MP Aaja Chemnitz of the decision, marking a moment Chemnitz has anticipated for years.

Prime Minister Frederiksen released a statement taking responsibility on behalf of Denmark for the unethical treatment of Greenlandic women concerning the use of spirals. She acknowledged that while the past cannot be altered, accountability can be taken and offered an apology.

Aaja Chemnitz, who has been advocating for the victims and encouraging them to sue the state, believes financial compensation is now more likely. The Prime Minister’s statement also alluded to this possibility, stating that the government will discuss measures and compensation with the Greenlandic government, Naalakkersuisut, after the official investigation into the spiral case is published.

Chemnitz, a member of the Danish Parliament for 10 years, has witnessed a shift in awareness regarding Denmark’s historical treatment of Greenland, culminating in the apology. She notes a greater sensitivity towards historical cases and human rights violations compared to years past.

The Greenlandic government, Naalakkersuisut, will also issue an official apology, recognizing that unethical spiral practices continued even after Greenland assumed control of the health sector in 1992. Chemnitz views this joint responsibility as a sign of maturity.

Another Greenlandic MP, Aki-Matilda Høegh-Dam, expressed satisfaction with the apology but questioned the timing, wondering why it was issued before the investigation’s findings were presented. She also raised concerns about the extent of Naalakkersuisut’s involvement, given that the practice was initiated by the Danish state.