Victims from a historical campaign where numerous comprising Inuit women and girls were covertly implanted with intrauterine devices (IUDs) absent informed permission are declaring a win in their court battle against Copenhagen.
It has been announced the women are now entitled to compensation via a reconciliation fund.
Parliamentary Settlement Finalized
Folketinget, along with state authorities, reached an agreement that entitles approximately 4,500 affected individuals the right to seek 300,000 DKK (£35,000) each.
This announcement follows a three-year campaign led by 143 claimants who filed a lawsuit seeking compensation for the trauma and distress they experienced, arguing it was a violation of fundamental personal rights.
Historical Context
Denmark ruled Greenland under colonial rule for decades and retained control of its healthcare system until 1992.
Earlier this year, following a long period where it did not address these actions, Denmark made an official apology. The country's leader expressed sorrow over the “systemic discrimination” targeting Greenlandic females by the Danish healthcare system.
“These actions caused major impacts for the affected women who have experienced both bodily and mental trauma,” said a senior official.
Redress Procedure Details
Authorities stated those subjected to the procedure without their knowledge or consent during a thirty-one year period would be able to apply for payment starting next year. Relevant legislation is set to be enacted in June.
According to the findings from a impartial inquiry of medical procedures during that time, roughly 4,500 individuals may be eligible for the fund.
For eligibility, the women must:
- Submit a “credible report” of the incident.
- Demonstrate they resided on the island throughout the qualifying period.
- State on oath that they possessed no awareness or consent for it to occur.
Perspectives of Victims
One of the plaintiffs, recalling being fourteen at the time she was instructed to go for medical attention for no clear reason, described it as feeling a violation.
“Speaking out publicly to the media proved successful,” she stated. “We started two years ago and now within three years we have secured an official apology plus compensation.”
A different perspective shared happiness, saying, “We are happy. As my mother put it: it's a victory.” While there is a view the amount should have been higher, there is relief over the acknowledgment of past events.
Ministerial Reactions
An Inuit minister called the settlement being “long overdue”. Stating clearly, “It is not primarily financial. It concerns recognition of the hurt and the very severe consequences.”
A Danish cabinet member acknowledged these events was a “dark chapter in our joint past”, noting that compensation “will not erase the pain from the women” but it “serves to recognize and express regret over what they endured.”
