Greenlandic Women Achieve Legal Victory in Battle against Denmark over Coerced Contraceptive Coil Affair.
Victims from a historical program where thousands of Inuit women and girls reportedly were forcibly fitted with contraceptive coils without their knowledge or consent have claimed a win following their court battle with Copenhagen.
Officials have confirmed that they are now eligible for compensation from a reconciliation package.
Government Agreement Finalized
Folketinget, and the government, reached an agreement that entitles an estimated four thousand five hundred Greenlandic women the right to seek kr. 300,000 (ÂŁ35,000) each.
The announcement comes after a three-year battle led by 143 women that initiated legal proceedings seeking compensation over the trauma and distress they had endured, arguing it constituted a breach of their personal rights.
Historical Background
The Danish state ruled Greenland under colonial rule until 1953 and retained control of its medical services until 1992.
In September, following a long period of failing to address these actions, the government made an expression of regret. The prime minister apologized for the “systemic discrimination” targeting Greenlandic females within the state medical apparatus.
“These actions caused significant impacts on the Greenlandic women who suffered not only bodily but also mental trauma,” said a government minister.
Compensation Procedure Outlined
The health ministry clarified that women who were given contraception without their knowledge or consent during a thirty-one year period can apply for payment starting next year. The law is set to be enacted by mid-year.
According to results from a independent investigation of contraceptive practices during that time, an estimated four and a half thousand women are potentially eligible for the fund.
To qualify, applicants must:
- Provide a “plausible account” of the incident.
- Have lived in Greenland throughout the specified timeframe.
- State on oath that they possessed no knowledge nor gave permission for the procedure.
Perspectives of Victims
One of the plaintiffs, recalling being 14 at the time she was instructed to report to the hospital for no clear reason, described it like a violation.
“Speaking out as speakers to the media proved successful,” she said. “It began two years ago and now a relatively short time we got an official apology plus financial acknowledgment.”
Another voice expressed happiness, saying, “This is a positive outcome. Like my mother said: it's a victory.” While some believe the amount should have been greater, they expressed relief over the recognition of what happened.
Official Reactions
An Inuit minister called the compensation as “well past due”. Stating clearly, “This isn't about the money. It concerns recognition of the injury and the very severe consequences.”
A Danish health minister acknowledged these events represent a “troubling period within the shared history”, adding while redress “cannot remove the suffering from the women” but it “helps to recognize and apologise for what they endured.”
