Change does not come through confrontation, but through dialogue.
If there is to be an increased military presence in Narsarsuaq, we must not hide the fact that the statements and threats of recent years have eroded trust in the Americans. That trust will not be restored by signing a piece of paper. It must be rebuilt—through action, dialogue, and, not least, genuine involvement.
For us, the principle is clear:
Nothing about us without us.
Access to our municipality and our local community must be accompanied by respect and cooperation.
That is why our expectations are clear:
The residents of Narsarsuaq must feel safe. Any military presence must not cause anxiety or uncertainty among the people who live there.
Narsarsuaq’s interests must be protected. Narsarsuaq is not just a spot on a map. It is one of our communities, with people, history, industries, and a local community of which we are proud.
The municipality and elected officials must be involved. Development must take place in close collaboration with the Municipality of Kujalleq, the municipal council, and the village council in Narsarsuaq. Local voices must be part of the decision-making process—not merely informed afterward.
The area must be treated with respect. This applies to nature, the environment, the sheep farmers on the other side of the fjord, and all the people who live and work in the area.
The rights of our residents are non-negotiable. We will never compromise on our citizens’ rights, and I want to make that clear from the outset.
At the same time, it must be equally clear that the municipal responsibilities and obligations of the Municipality of Kujalleq will not disappear simply because there may be an increased military presence.
On the contrary, they may become even larger.
If Narsarsuaq is to host an increased military presence, there must also be a clear understanding that this will affect the surrounding community. This places demands on infrastructure, emergency preparedness, housing, utilities, the environment, traffic, and municipal services.
We are open to dialogue. We are open to collaboration. And we are open to finding solutions.
But cooperation requires mutual respect.
Narsarsuaq is part of the Municipality of Kujalleq.
Narsarsuaq is where we live.
And the development of Narsarsuaq must be carried out in collaboration with its residents.
Malene Vahl Rasmussen,
Mayor of the Municipality of Kujalleq.
