Danish Colonial Rule Imposed Own Justice on Greenlandic Population

Introduction

In a stark contrast to traditional Greenlandic law, Denmark’s colonial authorities imposed their own justice on the indigenous population of Greenland. This dualistic approach highlighted the complexities and contradictions of colonial rule.

The Early Years: Danish and Greenlandic Law Systems

While the Danish population living in Greenland was subject to Danish legislation, the Greenlandic population was left to settle internal conflicts except for serious offenses. This early recognition of Greenlandic conceptions of law would later become a fundamental feature of the country’s legal system.

• The dualistic penal law system that emerged placed Danish and Greenlandic populations under separate systems.
• Danish delegates living in Greenland were subject to specific regulations, as they were sentenced according to Danish legislation.

The “Instructions for the Trade and Whalers on Greenland” (1782)

In 1782, a comprehensive law was introduced, known as “Instructions for the Trade and Whalers on Greenland.” This law established: + Uniform rules for adaptation methods among the Greenlandic Eskimoes + Divided the country into 11 different colonies + Introduced permanent prices and a superior royal control through two inspectorates

The regulations also emphasized the need to protect the Greenlandic people and control traders, including:

• Delegates were only allowed to enter local houses when conducting lawful business
• Distribution or serving of alcohol to Greenlanders was strictly prohibited

Suggestions for Advancing the Greenlandic Population (1798)

In 1798, all inspectors, traders, and assistants in Greenland were requested to suggest ways to advance the Greenlandic population economically by placing them under legislation. The idea was that subjecting them to a civil law would improve their standard of living, as they lacked a conception of obligation and means of compulsion or punishment.

Missionary Glahn’s Early Warning (1767)

In 1767, missionary Glahn had pointed out the growing need for a law for the Greenlandic people, emphasizing the importance of considering their customs and rituals when creating laws.

The Establishment of Principal Councils (1856-1862)

Later, in 1856, Inspector H.J. Rink and other influential government officials recommended setting up Principal Councils. These councils were established: + In 1857 for South-Greenland + Later expanded to North-Greenland in 1862

These councils had both Danish and Greenlandic members and aimed to supervise social matters, maintain order, and guide the Greenlandic people.

Conclusion

The establishment of Principal Councils marked a significant milestone in the development of an extensive administration in Greenland, highlighting the complex and often contradictory nature of colonial rule.