Development context influences fertility and reproductive health decisions in Greenland amid economic and environmental change

Abstract

Greenland is experiencing profound effects of climate change that impact hunting and fishing economies and livelihoods for Kalaallit, the Inuit people of Greenland. While environmental change has indirectly influenced fertility outcomes in hunting-dependent communities of North Greenland, little is known about the role of climate change in shaping fertility decisions elsewhere in the country. Given existing fertility and reproductive health disparities among Kalaallit individuals relative to other Arctic populations, understanding how climate change may interact with social, economic, and cultural conditions that influence reproductive health is critical. This study explored how social, economic, and environmental factors influence fertility decisions in Greenland. Grounded in principles of community-based participatory research, we conducted 35 semi-structured interviews with reproductive-aged (18–49 years) men (n = 16) and women (n = 19) from two communities, examining the social, cultural, environmental, and economic resources that shape their fertility decisions. Findings indicate that improving community capacity to address housing, education, and economic inequities is essential for supporting individual fertility and reproductive health, irrespective of climate change impacts. While participants widely observed climate change effects, they expressed confidence in Kalaallit ability to adapt and capitalize on benefits of climate change. This study highlights the importance of addressing development disparities to improve reproductive health outcomes, as well as climate adaptation in Greenland.