Across Greenland, people have celebrated the autonomy statute which came into effect today after 300 years under Danish rule.

Danish Prime Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen as well as Queen Margrethe and Prince Henrik attended the festivities. The royal couple was dressed in traditional Inuit costumes.

At the end of last year, a majority of Greenlanders voted in favour of autonomy, which is seen as an important step on the road to full independence from Denmark. Although Denmark still has control over defence and foreign policy, the about 57,000 Greenlanders will have more control over natural resources, including oil, gas, gold and diamonds.

Greenland faces serious social problems including a high suicide rate, widespread alcohol addiction and domestic violence.