Population of Greenland in 2019: Demographics and Migration

Greenland, the world's largest island, has long been a place of diverse cultural and linguistic groups. As of 2019, the total population was around 56,452, with an annual growth rate of approximately 0.8%. In this article, we will explore the demographics, migration patterns, and regions of Greenland in 2019.

Demographics

The population of Greenland in 2019 was predominantly Inuit, comprising approximately 87% of the total population. Other groups, including Danes and other European settlers, account for the remaining 13%. The term Greenlander can refer to Inuit, Europeans born in Greenland, and people of mixed Inuit and Danish descent. Danes are the largest non-Inuit group, followed by other nationalities.

Migration Patterns

According to the latest UN population statistics, around 60,000 people live in Greenland as of the same period. The city of Nuuk, located on the west coast, has roughly 17,600 residents, which is about one-fourth of the island's southern to northern tip distance. Nuuk is the largest city and serves as the capital of Greenland. As global warming continues to increase, there is a likelihood that more people may migrate to Greenland due to the melting of its ice.

Geographical and Cultural Regions

Greenland is often divided into three geographical, cultural, and linguistically distinct regions:

West Greenland (Kitaa): This region accounts for about 90% of the population, with around 52,000 inhabitants. Its population density is significantly higher than that of the other regions. North Greenland (Avannaa): This region has a population of approximately 1,000 inhabitants, with a low population density due to its vast, icy landscape. East Greenland (Tunu): Despite being the largest region of Greenland, it has a relatively low population, with the exact number not specified here.

Impact of Global Warming on Migration

Global warming continues to have a significant impact on Greenland. As the ice melts, more and more people are considering moving to Greenland. Research indicates that as the climate change leads to further melting, it could make certain areas more habitable for a broader range of people. However, the changes can also bring challenges such as infrastructure issues and adaptation.

Conclusion

In summary, as of 2019, the population of Greenland was around 56,452, with Inuits forming the majority of the population. The melting ice due to global warming may facilitate this migration, but infrastructure and adaptation will be critical. Understanding the demographics and migration patterns is essential to planning for the future of Greenland.