CEC voices concern over Greenland

22 January 2026

In a letter, signed by CEC General Secretary Rev. Frank-Dieter Fischbach, the fellowship of European churches stresses that Greenland’s future can only be decided by its own people. Any change of status without their consent would violate international law, including the UN Charter and the principle of self-determination, and would disregard the territorial integrity of the Kingdom of Denmark.

CEC affirms its solidarity with the people and churches of Greenland and assures them of prayers for peace, dignity, and the protection of their autonomy. It also commits to advocacy within the European Union and engagement with international organisations to uphold international law and order.

Recalling Europe’s own history, CEC cautions against the misuse of power, when stronger states seek to dominate smaller peoples. Such paths, the letter notes, have repeatedly led to injustice and suffering. Founded during the Cold War, CEC carries the memory of how churches have resisted marginalisation and defended human dignity.

CEC stands with Paneeraq Munk, the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Greenland, and all churches in Greenland in affirming the inalienable right of the Greenlandic people to self-determination.

The letter concludes with a call to do justice, uphold mutual respect, and safeguard the freedom of peoples and churches to shape their own future.