Greenland–European Union relations Greenland's fishing fleet. However, this deal was struck down by the European Court of Auditors, who felt the amount the EU was paying was too high for the quantity of fish caught. Greenland originally joined the then-European Communities with Denmark in 1973. At that time Greenland had no autonomy from Denmark, which it gained in 1979. Greenland achieved some special treatment such as restrictions on business for non-residents and fisheries. Greenland left in 1985, following a referendum in 1982 with 53% voting for withdrawal after a dispute over fishing rights. The Greenland Treaty formalized their exit. There has been some
Withdrawal of Greenland from the European Communities withdraw was made after Greenland had achieved self-rule, was made to protect Greenland's rights to its fishing waters and to limit external influence. The Treaty entered into force on 1 January 1985, and on 1 February 1985, Greenland formally withdrew from the European Communities. Withdrawal of Greenland from the European Communities The withdrawal of Greenland from the European Communities took place in 1985. This followed a referendum in 1982 in which 53% voted to leave. The Greenland Treaty was an agreement between the member states of the European Communities, concerning Greenland's exit from the European Communities. It followed the Greenlandic