370 young Greenlanders debate Greenland’s future

Some 370 young people from across southern Greenland gathered in Qaqortoq to discuss the country’s future at the Future of Greenland youth conference, DR reported.

The participants raised questions including how to grow Greenland’s film industry, bring more Greenlandic culture into tourism and ensure the Greenlandic language survives.

“We need inspiration to and from young people,” said conference host Rina Kofoed, 23, who studies at Greenland Business School in Nuuk. She said discussions could also help young people learn about education options and Greenlandic businesses.

The conference is for people aged 15 to 28 and has been held in several places in Greenland. It is organised by Greenland’s Business Association as a youth version of its annual Future Greenland business conference. The association’s director, Christian Kjeldsen, said it was important to engage with young people. Politicians were invited to listen to the discussions at Qaqortoq Gymnasium, where the event was held.

South Greenland Municipality Mayor Malene Hval Rasmussen said the young speakers had given her insight into the challenges they face and the solutions they propose. Topics included preserving the Greenlandic language, preventing bullying and ensuring good, stable primary schools.

The young people’s views are due to be presented to politicians and businesses in Nuuk at the Future Greenland business conference.