The government of Greenland does not have control of Greenland's military or foreign affairs. The defence of Greenland is the responsibility of Denmark. However, following the November 2008 referendum on increased autonomy, which attracted significant popular support (72% turnout, 75% vote in favor), the governments of Greenland and Denmark have agreed to a 30-point package that will begin to reverse this position.
Greenland has no regular military, although it has an armed coast guard that patrols the Greenlandic coast and carries out search and rescue operations.[citation needed]
The post-referendum governmental changes became effective in June 2009. Those that affect military provision include:
Greenland's government will be given significant autonomy in determining foreign affairs.
Many aspects of foreign affairs policy will no longer be linked to Danish policy.
Control of the militarised Greenlandic Coast Guard will be transferred to the Government of Greenland.
The Greenlandic government will take control of policing, including the police motor launches currently trained to assist military in the Island Command Greenland.