Autonomy development, irredentism and secessionism in a Nordic context

This contribution focuses on the three Nordic autonomous islands: the Aland Islands, the Faroe Islands and Greenland, and their path towards autonomy and the development of their own party systems. It focuses on the way mobilisation patterns have developed within the three jurisdictions and how the relationships towards their metropolitan states (Finland and Denmark, respectively) have evolved during a period of administrative and political devolution. The Aland Islands have experienced a slower process towards increasing autonomy than the Danish islands, which are now both heading towards independence. The reasons behind this are considered in the light of historical factors, the different models of autonomy and the existence of irredentist and/or secessionist movements.