Innuttaasunut

Guidelines for international journalists visiting Kommuneqarfik Sermersooq

Kommuneqarfik Sermersooq is currently experiencing a very high number of inquiries from international media following the increased global attention on Greenland. We welcome professional journalistic interest, but kindly ask all visiting journalists to take note of the following guidelines and limitations.

High volume of inquiries
At present, the municipality is receiving an exceptionally large number of requests from international journalists. Due to limited administrative capacity, we are not able to accommodate all requests, and responses may therefore be delayed or declined.

Familiarity with local legislation
Journalists are expected to familiarize themselves with Greenlandic legislation and local regulations prior to arrival. Please note that legal frameworks and journalistic rules may differ significantly from those in your home country, and compliance with local law is required at all times.

Interviews with the Mayor
The Mayor of Kommuneqarfik Sermersooq does not participate in interviews related to international or geopolitical matters. Such topics fall under the responsibility of the Government of Greenland (Naalakkersuisut), which is the appropriate authority in these areas.

The Mayor has chosen to give interviews to a limited number of selected media outlets focusing exclusively on how the current situation affects the municipality’s residents. She does not comment on broader political, international, or strategic issues.

Protection of children
Children must be kept out of journalistic coverage. In Greenland, it is strictly prohibited to photograph or film children without prior parental consent. Regardless of consent, the Mayor strongly believes that children should not be involved when journalists visit the country.

As a matter of current policy, permission is not granted for filming or photographing in schools or childcare institutions.

Filming and visits to public workplaces
Permission must always be obtained in advance before visiting or filming at any municipal workplace. Such requests may be declined without further explanation. This is due to GDPR regulations, the protection of sensitive personal data, and the fact that many municipal employees work closely with vulnerable citizens.

Contact with citizens
Kommuneqarfik Sermersooq cannot assist journalists in establishing contact with private citizens. As a public authority, the municipality may only access or contact citizens in connection with official case processing and administrative matters.