| ICELAND Republic of Iceland Lydveldid Island Joined United Nations: 19 November 1946 Human Rights as assured by their constitution Click here Updated 03/29/10 |
| CAPITAL |
| POPULATION |
| CHIEF OF STATE |
| SELECTION PROCESS |
Reykjavik
306,694 (July 2009 est.)
Olaf Ragnar Grimmson
President since 1 August 1996
President since 1 August 1996
President, largely a ceremonial post, is elected by popular vote
for a four-year term (no term limits); election last held 24 June
2008
Next scheduled election: June 2012
for a four-year term (no term limits); election last held 24 June
2008
Next scheduled election: June 2012
HEAD OF GOVERNMENT
SELECTION PROCESS
Johanna Sigurdardottir
Prime Minister since 01 February 2009
Prime Minister since 01 February 2009
Following legislative elections, the leader of the majority party or
the leader of the majority coalition is usually the prime minister
Elections last held 25 April 2009
Elections to be held: 2013
the leader of the majority coalition is usually the prime minister
Elections last held 25 April 2009
Elections to be held: 2013
| DECLARATION OF HUMAN RIGHTS |
| ETHNIC GROUPS |
Homogeneous mixture of descendants of Norse and Celts 94%, population of foreign origin 6%
| RELIGIONS |
Lutheran Church of Iceland 85.5%, Reykjavik Free Church 2.1%, Roman Catholic Church 2%, Hafnarfjorour Free
Church 1.5%, other Christian 2.7%, other or unspecified 3.8%, unaffiliated 2.4% (2004)
Church 1.5%, other Christian 2.7%, other or unspecified 3.8%, unaffiliated 2.4% (2004)
| GOVERNMENT STRUCTURE |
Constitutional republic comprised of 8 regions; Civil law system based on Danish law; has not accepted compulsory
ICJ jurisdiction
Executive: President, largely a ceremonial post, is elected by popular vote for a four-year term (no term limits); election
last held 24 June 2008 (next to be held June 2012); following legislative elections, the leader of the majority party or the
leader of the majority coalition is usually the prime minister
Legislative: Unicameral Parliament or Althing (63 seats; members are elected by popular vote to serve four-year
terms)
elections: last held 25 April 2009 (next to be held by May 2013)
Judicial: Supreme Court or Haestirettur (justices are appointed for life by the Minister of Justice); eight district
courts (justices are appointed for life by the Minister of Justice)
ICJ jurisdiction
Executive: President, largely a ceremonial post, is elected by popular vote for a four-year term (no term limits); election
last held 24 June 2008 (next to be held June 2012); following legislative elections, the leader of the majority party or the
leader of the majority coalition is usually the prime minister
Legislative: Unicameral Parliament or Althing (63 seats; members are elected by popular vote to serve four-year
terms)
elections: last held 25 April 2009 (next to be held by May 2013)
Judicial: Supreme Court or Haestirettur (justices are appointed for life by the Minister of Justice); eight district
courts (justices are appointed for life by the Minister of Justice)
| LANGUAGES |
Icelandic, English, Nordic languages, German widely spoken
| BRIEF HISTORY |
| ECONOMIC OVERVIEW |
Iceland's Scandinavian-type social-market economy combines a capitalist structure and free-market principles with
an extensive welfare system. Prior to the 2008 crisis, Iceland had achieved high growth, low unemployment, and a
remarkably even distribution of income. The economy depends heavily on the fishing industry, which provides 40%
of export earnings, more than 12% of GDP, and employs 7% of the work force. It remains sensitive to declining fish
stocks as well as to fluctuations in world prices for its main exports: fish and fish products, aluminum, and
ferrosilicon. Iceland's economy has been diversifying into manufacturing and service industries in the last decade, with
new developments in software production, biotechnology, and tourism. Abundant geothermal and hydropower
sources have attracted substantial foreign investment in the aluminum sector and boosted economic growth, although
the financial crisis has put several investment projects on hold. Much of Iceland's economic growth in recent years
came as the result of a boom in domestic demand following the rapid expansion of the country's financial sector.
Domestic banks expanded aggressively in foreign markets, and consumers and businesses borrowed heavily in
foreign-currencies, following the privatization of the banking sector in the early 2000s. Worsening global financial
conditions throughout 2008 resulted in a sharp depreciation of the krona vis-a-vis other major currencies. The
foreign exposure of Icelandic banks, whose loans and other assets totaled more than 10 times the country's GDP,
became unsustainable. Iceland's three largest banks collapsed in late 2008. The country secured over $10 billion in
loans from the IMF and other countries to stabilize its currency and financial sector, and to back government
guarantees for foreign deposits in Icelandic banks. GDP fell 6.3% in 2009, and unemployment peaked at 8.8%.
GDP growth is expected to be near zero in 2010. Since the collapse of Iceland's financial sector, government
economic priorities have included stabilizing the krona, reducing Iceland's high budget deficit, containing inflation,
restructuring the financial sector, and diversifying the economy. Three new banks were established to take over the
domestic assets of the collapsed banks. Two of them have foreign majority ownership, while the State holds a
majority of the shares of the third. British and Dutch authorities have pressed claims against Icelandic Landsbanki to
compensate their own citizens for losses suffered on deposits held in that bank. The collapse of the financial system
initially led to a major shift in opinion in favor of joining the EU and adopting the euro, although support has dropped
substantially because of concern about losing control of their fishing resources and in reaction to measures taken by
EU partners following the financial crisis.
Source: CIA World Factbook (select Iceland)
an extensive welfare system. Prior to the 2008 crisis, Iceland had achieved high growth, low unemployment, and a
remarkably even distribution of income. The economy depends heavily on the fishing industry, which provides 40%
of export earnings, more than 12% of GDP, and employs 7% of the work force. It remains sensitive to declining fish
stocks as well as to fluctuations in world prices for its main exports: fish and fish products, aluminum, and
ferrosilicon. Iceland's economy has been diversifying into manufacturing and service industries in the last decade, with
new developments in software production, biotechnology, and tourism. Abundant geothermal and hydropower
sources have attracted substantial foreign investment in the aluminum sector and boosted economic growth, although
the financial crisis has put several investment projects on hold. Much of Iceland's economic growth in recent years
came as the result of a boom in domestic demand following the rapid expansion of the country's financial sector.
Domestic banks expanded aggressively in foreign markets, and consumers and businesses borrowed heavily in
foreign-currencies, following the privatization of the banking sector in the early 2000s. Worsening global financial
conditions throughout 2008 resulted in a sharp depreciation of the krona vis-a-vis other major currencies. The
foreign exposure of Icelandic banks, whose loans and other assets totaled more than 10 times the country's GDP,
became unsustainable. Iceland's three largest banks collapsed in late 2008. The country secured over $10 billion in
loans from the IMF and other countries to stabilize its currency and financial sector, and to back government
guarantees for foreign deposits in Icelandic banks. GDP fell 6.3% in 2009, and unemployment peaked at 8.8%.
GDP growth is expected to be near zero in 2010. Since the collapse of Iceland's financial sector, government
economic priorities have included stabilizing the krona, reducing Iceland's high budget deficit, containing inflation,
restructuring the financial sector, and diversifying the economy. Three new banks were established to take over the
domestic assets of the collapsed banks. Two of them have foreign majority ownership, while the State holds a
majority of the shares of the third. British and Dutch authorities have pressed claims against Icelandic Landsbanki to
compensate their own citizens for losses suffered on deposits held in that bank. The collapse of the financial system
initially led to a major shift in opinion in favor of joining the EU and adopting the euro, although support has dropped
substantially because of concern about losing control of their fishing resources and in reaction to measures taken by
EU partners following the financial crisis.
Source: CIA World Factbook (select Iceland)
| POLITICAL CLIMATE |
Former Prime Minister Geir Haarde called a general election for April 25 2009, two years early. Mr Haarde also
said he would stand down as party leader at its annual congress in March for health reasons.[2] At the resulting
election, Icelanders voted for the first time for a majority left-wing government, and the re-election of the formerly
interim administration of Jóhanna Sigurðardóttir.
The president, elected to a 4-year term, has limited powers. The prime minister and cabinet exercise most executive
functions. The president of Iceland is a largely ceremonial office that serves as a diplomat, figurehead and head of
state. The head of government is the prime minister, who, together with the cabinet, takes care of the executive part
of government. The cabinet is appointed by the president after general elections to Althing; however, this process is
usually conducted by the leaders of the political parties, who decide among themselves after discussions which
parties can form the cabinet and how its seats are to be distributed (under the condition that it has a majority support
in Althing).
Wikipedia: Politics of Iceland
said he would stand down as party leader at its annual congress in March for health reasons.[2] At the resulting
election, Icelanders voted for the first time for a majority left-wing government, and the re-election of the formerly
interim administration of Jóhanna Sigurðardóttir.
The president, elected to a 4-year term, has limited powers. The prime minister and cabinet exercise most executive
functions. The president of Iceland is a largely ceremonial office that serves as a diplomat, figurehead and head of
state. The head of government is the prime minister, who, together with the cabinet, takes care of the executive part
of government. The cabinet is appointed by the president after general elections to Althing; however, this process is
usually conducted by the leaders of the political parties, who decide among themselves after discussions which
parties can form the cabinet and how its seats are to be distributed (under the condition that it has a majority support
in Althing).
Wikipedia: Politics of Iceland
| INTERNATIONAL DISPUTES |
Iceland disputes Denmark's alignment of the Faroe Islands' fisheries median line; Iceland, the UK, and Ireland
dispute Denmark's claim that the Faroe Islands' continental shelf extends beyond 200 nm
dispute Denmark's claim that the Faroe Islands' continental shelf extends beyond 200 nm
| REFUGEES AND INTERNALLY DISPLACED PERSONS (IDP) |
None reported.
| ILLICIT DRUGS |
None reported.
| HUMAN RIGHTS STATEMENTS, ANALYSIS AND CRITIQUES |
2009 Human Rights Report: Iceland
Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor
2009 Country Reports on Human Rights Practices
March 11, 2010
Iceland, with a population of 318,000, is a constitutional parliamentary republic. The president is the head of state; a prime minister,
usually the head of the majority party, is head of government. There is a unicameral parliament (Althingi). In 2008 Olafur Ragnar
Grimsson was reelected president in free and fair elections. After parliamentary elections on April 25, the Social Democratic
Alliance (SDA) and the Left-Green Movement (LG) formed a governing coalition led by Prime Minister Johanna Sigurdardottir
(SDA). The elections were free and fair. Civilian authorities generally maintained effective control of the security forces.
Reported human rights problems included:
Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor
2009 Country Reports on Human Rights Practices
March 11, 2010
Iceland, with a population of 318,000, is a constitutional parliamentary republic. The president is the head of state; a prime minister,
usually the head of the majority party, is head of government. There is a unicameral parliament (Althingi). In 2008 Olafur Ragnar
Grimsson was reelected president in free and fair elections. After parliamentary elections on April 25, the Social Democratic
Alliance (SDA) and the Left-Green Movement (LG) formed a governing coalition led by Prime Minister Johanna Sigurdardottir
(SDA). The elections were free and fair. Civilian authorities generally maintained effective control of the security forces.
Reported human rights problems included:
- societal discrimination against minorities and foreigners, especially refugees and asylum seekers;
- violence against women;
- reports of persons trafficked to and through the country.
8 July 2008
COMMITTEE AGAINST TORTURE
Fortieth session
Geneva, 28 April-16 May 2008
CONSIDERATION OF REPORTS SUBMITTED BY STATES PARTIES UNDER ARTICLE 19 OF THE CONVENTION
Concluding observations of the Committee against Torture
ICELAND
A. Introduction
2. The Committee welcomes the third periodic report of Iceland, which was prepared in accordance with the Committee’s
guidelines and submitted on time. The Committee welcomes also the comprehensive written responses provided to the list of issues
(CAT/C/ISL/Q/3/Add.1) and appreciates the fruitful and constructive dialogue with the State party’s delegation.
B. Positive aspects
3. The Committee welcomes the State party’s ongoing efforts to comply with its obligations under the Convention and to prevent
and eliminate any acts or conduct contrary to its provisions.
The Committee notes, inter alia:
(a) The new Application of Punishments Act, No. 49/2005, including its two regulations on the application of punishment and the
training of prison warders;
C. Principal areas of concern and recommendations
Definition of torture and criminalization
5. While noting the explanations provided by the State party in its second and third periodic reports and in the written replies to the
list of issues with regard to the interpretation of the definition of torture and its use in domestic criminal legislation, the Committee
regrets that no change has taken place with regard to the State party’s position not to fully incorporate the definition of torture as
defined in article 1 of the Convention, nor to incorporate torture as a specific crime into domestic criminal legislation (arts. 1 and 4).
The Committee reiterates its previous recommendation, namely that the definition of torture according to article 1 of the Convention
be introduced into Icelandic criminal legislation in order to ensure that all elements of torture are included, and that torture be
defined as a specific offence in domestic laws. The Committee also draws the attention of the State party to its general comment
No. 2 on the implementation of article 2.
Click here to read more »
COMMITTEE AGAINST TORTURE
Fortieth session
Geneva, 28 April-16 May 2008
CONSIDERATION OF REPORTS SUBMITTED BY STATES PARTIES UNDER ARTICLE 19 OF THE CONVENTION
Concluding observations of the Committee against Torture
ICELAND
A. Introduction
2. The Committee welcomes the third periodic report of Iceland, which was prepared in accordance with the Committee’s
guidelines and submitted on time. The Committee welcomes also the comprehensive written responses provided to the list of issues
(CAT/C/ISL/Q/3/Add.1) and appreciates the fruitful and constructive dialogue with the State party’s delegation.
B. Positive aspects
3. The Committee welcomes the State party’s ongoing efforts to comply with its obligations under the Convention and to prevent
and eliminate any acts or conduct contrary to its provisions.
The Committee notes, inter alia:
(a) The new Application of Punishments Act, No. 49/2005, including its two regulations on the application of punishment and the
training of prison warders;
C. Principal areas of concern and recommendations
Definition of torture and criminalization
5. While noting the explanations provided by the State party in its second and third periodic reports and in the written replies to the
list of issues with regard to the interpretation of the definition of torture and its use in domestic criminal legislation, the Committee
regrets that no change has taken place with regard to the State party’s position not to fully incorporate the definition of torture as
defined in article 1 of the Convention, nor to incorporate torture as a specific crime into domestic criminal legislation (arts. 1 and 4).
The Committee reiterates its previous recommendation, namely that the definition of torture according to article 1 of the Convention
be introduced into Icelandic criminal legislation in order to ensure that all elements of torture are included, and that torture be
defined as a specific offence in domestic laws. The Committee also draws the attention of the State party to its general comment
No. 2 on the implementation of article 2.
Click here to read more »
FREEDOM IN THE WORLD REPORT 2009
Political Rights Score: 1
Civil Liberties Score: 1
Status: Free
Overview
In a rare clash between police and protesters, 20 people were arrested during one of a series of truck-driver protests prompted by
rising fuel prices in March and April. Later in the year, a credit crisis affecting the world’s financial markets led to the collapse of
Iceland’s banking system and the beginning of what promised to be a deep recession.
The ruling coalition broke up following May 2007 parliamentary elections, in which the IP took 25 seats and the PP slipped to 7,
leaving the pair with a razor-thin majority in the 63-seat legislature. The IP then formed a new coalition with the center-left Social
Democratic Alliance, which held 18 seats, and Haarde returned as prime minister. Among other parties, the Left-Green Movement
took 9 seats, and the Liberal Party won 4.
In March and April 2008, truck drivers protested on several occasions against increasing fuel prices. In one instance, police
arrested 20 protesters and used pepper spray to fend off the crowd, leading several people to seek medical treatment. Protesters
threw stones at police, injuring one officer. Such clashes are rare in Iceland.
A global credit crisis devastated the economy beginning in September, and the government was forced to nationalize three large
banks in October. By November, Iceland had arranged to borrow about $10 billion from the International Monetary Fund (IMF)
and several foreign governments in order to meet its obligations to foreign depositors. That sum was reportedly equivalent to
Iceland’s entire gross domestic product. The grim economic situation appeared to alter public attitudes in favor of joining the
European Union (EU) as the year drew to a close. The failing economy led to protests calling for Haarde’s resignation at year’s end.
Iceland is an electoral democracy. The constitution, adopted in 1944, vests power in a president, a prime minister, the 63-seat
unicameral legislature (the Althingi), and a judiciary. The president, whose duties are mostly ceremonial, is directly elected for a
four-year term. The legislature is also elected for four years, but it can be dissolved for early elections in certain circumstances.
The prime minister is appointed by the president but responsible to the legislature. Although the center-right IP has dominated
politics since the country’s independence, elections are free, fair, and competitive. Five political parties are represented in the
Althingi. The IP formed a ruling coalition with the center-left Social Democratic Alliance after May 2007 elections, leaving the PP,
the Left-Green Movement, and the Liberal Party in opposition.
Click here to read more »
Political Rights Score: 1
Civil Liberties Score: 1
Status: Free
Overview
In a rare clash between police and protesters, 20 people were arrested during one of a series of truck-driver protests prompted by
rising fuel prices in March and April. Later in the year, a credit crisis affecting the world’s financial markets led to the collapse of
Iceland’s banking system and the beginning of what promised to be a deep recession.
The ruling coalition broke up following May 2007 parliamentary elections, in which the IP took 25 seats and the PP slipped to 7,
leaving the pair with a razor-thin majority in the 63-seat legislature. The IP then formed a new coalition with the center-left Social
Democratic Alliance, which held 18 seats, and Haarde returned as prime minister. Among other parties, the Left-Green Movement
took 9 seats, and the Liberal Party won 4.
In March and April 2008, truck drivers protested on several occasions against increasing fuel prices. In one instance, police
arrested 20 protesters and used pepper spray to fend off the crowd, leading several people to seek medical treatment. Protesters
threw stones at police, injuring one officer. Such clashes are rare in Iceland.
A global credit crisis devastated the economy beginning in September, and the government was forced to nationalize three large
banks in October. By November, Iceland had arranged to borrow about $10 billion from the International Monetary Fund (IMF)
and several foreign governments in order to meet its obligations to foreign depositors. That sum was reportedly equivalent to
Iceland’s entire gross domestic product. The grim economic situation appeared to alter public attitudes in favor of joining the
European Union (EU) as the year drew to a close. The failing economy led to protests calling for Haarde’s resignation at year’s end.
Iceland is an electoral democracy. The constitution, adopted in 1944, vests power in a president, a prime minister, the 63-seat
unicameral legislature (the Althingi), and a judiciary. The president, whose duties are mostly ceremonial, is directly elected for a
four-year term. The legislature is also elected for four years, but it can be dissolved for early elections in certain circumstances.
The prime minister is appointed by the president but responsible to the legislature. Although the center-right IP has dominated
politics since the country’s independence, elections are free, fair, and competitive. Five political parties are represented in the
Althingi. The IP formed a ruling coalition with the center-left Social Democratic Alliance after May 2007 elections, leaving the PP,
the Left-Green Movement, and the Liberal Party in opposition.
Click here to read more »
Amnesty International Urges Justice Minister to Reconsider Refugee Position
3.4.2009
The Icelandic chapter of Amnesty International has urge the Minister of Justice to reconsider Iceland's position in sending refugees
to Greece.
Amnesty International gave Minister of Justice Ragna Árnadóttir a letter asking her to reconsider the case of five refugees here in
Iceland, who might find themselves sent to Greece.
"It is very troubling that the Icelandic government continues to take even fewer refugee applications into serious consideration,"
reads the letter in part "and instead sends these people to third-party countries. Many international organizations are against the
sending of refugees to Greece, among them the UN Refugee Office, Amnesty International and the European Council on Refugees
and Exiles."
The Icelandic government, in sending refugees to Greece, is invoking the Dublin Accord - that refugees can be sent back to the
location where their previous visa was issued - as a reason for rejecting the vast majority of refugees and simply sending them back
to their last point
of departure before arriving in Iceland.
The five refugees in question come from Albania, Afghanistan and Iraq. Many refugees fleeing the Middle East will often first enter
Greece before seeking asylum elsewhere. As there are no direct flights to Iceland from Afghanistan, Iraq or Albania, the Icelandic
government often does cite the Dublin Accord and turns asylum seekers away.
The most famous example would be the case of Paul Ramses, a Kenyan who sought asylum in Iceland but was sent to Italy, as
that was the country of origin of his last visa. The deportation gained national attention, as he was separated from his wife and
infant child still in Iceland.
The Ministry of Justice reviewed the case at the behest of a national outcry, and he was brought back to Iceland.
The minister has said she is reviewing the matter.
Click here to read more »
3.4.2009
The Icelandic chapter of Amnesty International has urge the Minister of Justice to reconsider Iceland's position in sending refugees
to Greece.
Amnesty International gave Minister of Justice Ragna Árnadóttir a letter asking her to reconsider the case of five refugees here in
Iceland, who might find themselves sent to Greece.
"It is very troubling that the Icelandic government continues to take even fewer refugee applications into serious consideration,"
reads the letter in part "and instead sends these people to third-party countries. Many international organizations are against the
sending of refugees to Greece, among them the UN Refugee Office, Amnesty International and the European Council on Refugees
and Exiles."
The Icelandic government, in sending refugees to Greece, is invoking the Dublin Accord - that refugees can be sent back to the
location where their previous visa was issued - as a reason for rejecting the vast majority of refugees and simply sending them back
to their last point
of departure before arriving in Iceland.
The five refugees in question come from Albania, Afghanistan and Iraq. Many refugees fleeing the Middle East will often first enter
Greece before seeking asylum elsewhere. As there are no direct flights to Iceland from Afghanistan, Iraq or Albania, the Icelandic
government often does cite the Dublin Accord and turns asylum seekers away.
The most famous example would be the case of Paul Ramses, a Kenyan who sought asylum in Iceland but was sent to Italy, as
that was the country of origin of his last visa. The deportation gained national attention, as he was separated from his wife and
infant child still in Iceland.
The Ministry of Justice reviewed the case at the behest of a national outcry, and he was brought back to Iceland.
The minister has said she is reviewing the matter.
Click here to read more »
Iceland
Iceland: Child Soldiers Global Report 2001
From the Coalition to Stop the Use of Child Soldiers
There are no armed forces in Iceland and legislative provisions governing potential recruitment for the defence of the country
indicate that only those over 18 would be required to participate if such a situation were to arise.
June 12, 2001 Multi Country Report
Iceland: Landmine Monitor Report 2000
The Republic of Iceland signed the Mine Ban Treaty on 4 December 1997 and ratified it on 5 May 1999. The treaty entered into
force for Iceland on 1 November 1999. National legislation to ensure implementation is being prepared. 91 Iceland voted in favor of
the United Nations General Assembly pro-ban resolutions 1996-1998, and again in December 1999. It attended the First Meeting of
States Parties to the Mine Ban Treaty in May 1999. It has not submitted its Article 7 report, which was due by 29 April 2000. The
Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that Iceland views the Mine Ban Treaty as important, but does not play an active role in its
implementation work.
Click here to read more »
Iceland: Child Soldiers Global Report 2001
From the Coalition to Stop the Use of Child Soldiers
There are no armed forces in Iceland and legislative provisions governing potential recruitment for the defence of the country
indicate that only those over 18 would be required to participate if such a situation were to arise.
June 12, 2001 Multi Country Report
Iceland: Landmine Monitor Report 2000
The Republic of Iceland signed the Mine Ban Treaty on 4 December 1997 and ratified it on 5 May 1999. The treaty entered into
force for Iceland on 1 November 1999. National legislation to ensure implementation is being prepared. 91 Iceland voted in favor of
the United Nations General Assembly pro-ban resolutions 1996-1998, and again in December 1999. It attended the First Meeting of
States Parties to the Mine Ban Treaty in May 1999. It has not submitted its Article 7 report, which was due by 29 April 2000. The
Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that Iceland views the Mine Ban Treaty as important, but does not play an active role in its
implementation work.
Click here to read more »
Statement by H.E. Mr. Árni Páll Árnason, Minister of Social Affairs and Social Security
54th Session of the Commission on the Status of Women
2.3.2010
In recent times, my country has witnessed some very positive developments as regards gender equality. Last year, for the first time, a
woman was appointed Prime Minister, the number of men and women in the government became equal and the representation of
women in Parliament rose to 43%. These changes have brought Iceland to the top of the World Economic Forum Global Gender Gap
Index for 2009.
However, challenges remain.
Violence against women is another factor where we want to increase our focus. Last year, the Icelandic parliament enacted a law
criminalizing the buying of sex. Iceland has thereby joined Sweden and Norway in defining prostitution as one form of violence
against women that must be eliminated. We are also strengthening our efforts in dealing with human trafficking.
The Icelandic government has defined, and continues to define, gender equality as one of the priorities of its foreign policy. Special
focus has been given to women’s empowerment, particularly as regards development co-operation, climate change and peace
processes.
Later this year, the international community will celebrate the tenth anniversary of United Nations Security Council Resolution 1325 on
women, peace and security. It is worrying that despite some progress made in the last decade, the knowledge and experience of
women is still consistently ignored and women remain largely excluded from peace processes. This we must change, as equal
participation of both sexes is imperative to achieving a lasting and sustainable peace.
In this line, Iceland supports the extraordinary work of the International Women’s Commission for a Just and Sustainable Peace, an
organization where Israeli and Palestinian women work, together with women from the international community, on resolving the
conflict.
It is Iceland’s firm belief that the creation of a new UN gender entity to be led by an Under- Secretary General will be a very positive
step towards an increased focus on gender equality and women’s empowerment. Progress has been made last year on the
establishment of the composite gender entity and we now have a comprehensive proposal addressing many of the concerns raised.
We need to use this momentum to demonstrate our commitment to quick delivery. The gender entity should be operational without
further delay.
The work for gender equality is more important than ever. It is the base for a safer, more just, more democratic, and more sustainable
world we owe to our children and future generations.
Click here to read more »
54th Session of the Commission on the Status of Women
2.3.2010
In recent times, my country has witnessed some very positive developments as regards gender equality. Last year, for the first time, a
woman was appointed Prime Minister, the number of men and women in the government became equal and the representation of
women in Parliament rose to 43%. These changes have brought Iceland to the top of the World Economic Forum Global Gender Gap
Index for 2009.
However, challenges remain.
Violence against women is another factor where we want to increase our focus. Last year, the Icelandic parliament enacted a law
criminalizing the buying of sex. Iceland has thereby joined Sweden and Norway in defining prostitution as one form of violence
against women that must be eliminated. We are also strengthening our efforts in dealing with human trafficking.
The Icelandic government has defined, and continues to define, gender equality as one of the priorities of its foreign policy. Special
focus has been given to women’s empowerment, particularly as regards development co-operation, climate change and peace
processes.
Later this year, the international community will celebrate the tenth anniversary of United Nations Security Council Resolution 1325 on
women, peace and security. It is worrying that despite some progress made in the last decade, the knowledge and experience of
women is still consistently ignored and women remain largely excluded from peace processes. This we must change, as equal
participation of both sexes is imperative to achieving a lasting and sustainable peace.
In this line, Iceland supports the extraordinary work of the International Women’s Commission for a Just and Sustainable Peace, an
organization where Israeli and Palestinian women work, together with women from the international community, on resolving the
conflict.
It is Iceland’s firm belief that the creation of a new UN gender entity to be led by an Under- Secretary General will be a very positive
step towards an increased focus on gender equality and women’s empowerment. Progress has been made last year on the
establishment of the composite gender entity and we now have a comprehensive proposal addressing many of the concerns raised.
We need to use this momentum to demonstrate our commitment to quick delivery. The gender entity should be operational without
further delay.
The work for gender equality is more important than ever. It is the base for a safer, more just, more democratic, and more sustainable
world we owe to our children and future generations.
Click here to read more »
The Icelandic Human Rights Centre issues a manual on the rights of refugees
10.10.2008
The Icelandic Human Rights Centre, the Icelandic Red Cross and the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees have issues
a Manual on the Rights of Refugees: Treatment and Requirements according to the 1951 Convention relating to the Status of
Refugees and the 1967 Protocol on the Rights of Refugees. In this manual the term “refugee” is defined as well as the status of
refugees. The manual is fundamental with regards to the interpretation of the United Nations’ Convention relating to the Status of
Refugees and the purpose is to guide authorities and professionals on the treatment and requirements when defining the rights of
refugees. Hopefully, it will arouse interest and be useful to everyone who deals with refugee issues, for example public officials,
scholars, lawyers and others. The manual can be purchased at the Icelandic Human Rights Centre, Hafnarstræti 20, 101 Reykjavík.
It can also be ordered via e-mail: icehr@humanrights.is
Click here to read more »
10.10.2008
The Icelandic Human Rights Centre, the Icelandic Red Cross and the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees have issues
a Manual on the Rights of Refugees: Treatment and Requirements according to the 1951 Convention relating to the Status of
Refugees and the 1967 Protocol on the Rights of Refugees. In this manual the term “refugee” is defined as well as the status of
refugees. The manual is fundamental with regards to the interpretation of the United Nations’ Convention relating to the Status of
Refugees and the purpose is to guide authorities and professionals on the treatment and requirements when defining the rights of
refugees. Hopefully, it will arouse interest and be useful to everyone who deals with refugee issues, for example public officials,
scholars, lawyers and others. The manual can be purchased at the Icelandic Human Rights Centre, Hafnarstræti 20, 101 Reykjavík.
It can also be ordered via e-mail: icehr@humanrights.is
Click here to read more »
The Office of the Althing Ombudsman
The Althing Ombudsman is elected by Althing for periods of four years. He shall fulfil the conditions provided by law for
appointment to the Supreme Court. In his work the Ombudsman is independent and takes orders from nobody, Althing included.
What is the role of the Althing Ombudsman?
The role of the Althing Ombudsman is to monitor the administration of the State and local authorities and safeguard the rights of the
citizens vis-à-vis the authorities. The Ombudsman shall take pains to ensure that the principle of equality is observed and that
administration is in other respects conducted in conformity with the law and good administrative practice.
The jurisdiction of the Althing Ombudsman
The Althing Ombudsman monitors the administration of the State and local authorities, as well as the activities of private bodies
insofar as they have been by law vested with authority to decide as to individuals' rights and obligations. Consequently, complaints
may be lodged with the Ombudsman about decisions, procedures and conduct exercised by officials of ministries and government
agencies and other bodies engaged in State administration. The same applies in the case of officials of local authorities and others
who are engaged in administration for municipalities, as well as to employees of private bodies inasmuch as these have been by law
vested with authority to decide as to individuals' rights and obligations.
What falls outside the jurisdiction of the Althing Ombudsman?
Among the matters outside the Ombudsman's jurisdiction are:
* the proceedings of Althing
* the proceedings of the courts of law
* decisions by the authorities, which shall be put to the courts, as provided by law
* differences between individuals
How much does it cost to turn to the Althing Ombudsman?
The Ombudsman takes up cases free of charge for those who bring them.
Click here to read more »
The Althing Ombudsman is elected by Althing for periods of four years. He shall fulfil the conditions provided by law for
appointment to the Supreme Court. In his work the Ombudsman is independent and takes orders from nobody, Althing included.
What is the role of the Althing Ombudsman?
The role of the Althing Ombudsman is to monitor the administration of the State and local authorities and safeguard the rights of the
citizens vis-à-vis the authorities. The Ombudsman shall take pains to ensure that the principle of equality is observed and that
administration is in other respects conducted in conformity with the law and good administrative practice.
The jurisdiction of the Althing Ombudsman
The Althing Ombudsman monitors the administration of the State and local authorities, as well as the activities of private bodies
insofar as they have been by law vested with authority to decide as to individuals' rights and obligations. Consequently, complaints
may be lodged with the Ombudsman about decisions, procedures and conduct exercised by officials of ministries and government
agencies and other bodies engaged in State administration. The same applies in the case of officials of local authorities and others
who are engaged in administration for municipalities, as well as to employees of private bodies inasmuch as these have been by law
vested with authority to decide as to individuals' rights and obligations.
What falls outside the jurisdiction of the Althing Ombudsman?
Among the matters outside the Ombudsman's jurisdiction are:
* the proceedings of Althing
* the proceedings of the courts of law
* decisions by the authorities, which shall be put to the courts, as provided by law
* differences between individuals
How much does it cost to turn to the Althing Ombudsman?
The Ombudsman takes up cases free of charge for those who bring them.
Click here to read more »
Iceland may be the Ultima Thule of the ancients. Irish monks visited it before the 9th cent., but abandoned it on the
arrival (c.850-875) of Norse settlers, many of whom had fled from the domination of Harold I . The Norse
settlements also contained many Irish and Scottish slaves, mainly women. In 930 a general assembly, the Althing,
was established near Reykjavík at Thingvellir, and Christianity was introduced c.1000 by the Norwegian Olaf I ,
although paganism seems to have survived for a time. These events are preserved in the literature of 13th-century
Iceland, where Old Norse literature reached its greatest flowering. (Modern Icelandic is virtually the same language
as that of the sagas.) Politically, Iceland became a feudal state, and the bloody civil wars of rival chieftains facilitated
Norwegian intervention. The attempt of Snorri Sturluson (1179-1241) to establish the full control of King Haakon
IV of Norway over Iceland was a failure; however, Haakon incorporated Iceland into the archdiocese of Trondheim
and between 1261 and 1264 obtained acknowledgment of his suzerainty by the Icelanders. Norwegian rule brought
order, but high taxes and an imposed judicial system caused much discontent. When, with Norway, Iceland passed
(1380) under the Danish crown, the Danes showed even less concern for Icelandic welfare; a national decline
(1400-1550) set in. Lutheranism was imposed by force (1539-51) over the opposition of Bishop Jon Aresson ; the
Reformation brought new intellectual activity. The 17th and 18th cent. were, in many ways, disastrous for Iceland.
English, Spanish, and Algerian pirates raided the coasts and ruined trade; epidemics and volcanic eruptions killed a
large part of the population; and the creation (1602) of a private trading company at Copenhagen, with exclusive
rights to the Iceland trade, caused economic ruin. The private trade monopoly was at last revoked in 1771 and
transferred to the Danish crown, and in 1786 trade with Iceland was opened to all Danish and Norwegian
merchants. The exclusion of foreign traders was lifted in 1854. The 19th cent. brought a rebirth of national culture
(see Icelandic literature ) and strong agitation for independence. The great leader of this movement was Jón
Sigurðsson . The Althing, abolished in 1800, was reestablished in 1843; in 1874 a constitution and limited home rule
were granted; and in 1918, Iceland became a sovereign state in personal union with Denmark. The German
occupation (1940) of Denmark in World War II gave the Althing an opportunity to assume the king's prerogatives
and the control of foreign affairs. Great Britain sent (1940) a military force to defend the island from possible German
attack, and this was replaced after 1941 by U.S. forces. In 1944 an overwhelming majority of Icelanders voted to
terminate the union with Denmark; the kingdom of Iceland was proclaimed an independent republic on June 17,
1944. Sveinn Björrnsson was the first president. Iceland was admitted to the United Nations in 1946; it joined in the
Marshall Plan and the North Atlantic Treaty Organization. In 1946, Iceland granted the United States the right to use
the American-built airport at Keflavík for military as well as commercial planes. Under a 1951 defense pact, U.S.
troops were stationed there. Björnsson was succeeded by Ásgeir Ásgeirsson. Relations with Great Britain were
strained when Iceland, in order to protect its vital fishing industry, extended (1958) the limits of its territorial waters
from 4 to 12 mi (6.4-19.3 km). The conflict, which at times led to exchanges of fire between Icelandic coast guard
vessels and British destroyers, was resolved in 1961 when Great Britain accepted the new limits. Kristjárn Eldjárn
was elected president in 1968 and reelected in 1972 and 1976. Iceland joined the European Free Trade Association
in 1970. In 1971 elections the Independence party-Social Democratic party coalition government, which had
governed for 12 years, lost its majority, and a leftist coalition came to power. The dispute with Britain over fishing
rights (widely known as the "cod wars" ) was renewed in 1972 when Iceland unilaterally extended its territorial
waters to 50 mi (80 km) offshore and forbade foreign fishing vessels in the new zone. An interim agreement was
reached in 1973, whereby the British would limit their annual catch and restrict themselves to certain fishing areas
and specified numbers and types of vessels. In Jan., 1973, the Helgafell volcano on Heimaey island erupted,
damaging the town of Vestmannaeyjar. Later in the year Iceland and the United States began revising the 1951
defense pact, with a view toward ending the U.S. military presence. U.S. forces still use the NATO base at Keflavík
Airport, and their presence continues to be a point of contention among Iceland's parties. A split in the ruling
coalition over economic policies caused the Althing to be dissolved in 1974; following elections, the Independence
party formed a new government. Iceland extended its fishing limits to 200 mi (320 km) in 1975, which, after more
skirmishes with Great Britain, was finally recognized in 1976. Vigdís Finnbogadóttir was elected president in 1980,
thus becoming the world's first popularly elected female head of state; she was reelected in 1984, 1988, and 1992.
Davíð Oddsson, of the conservative Independence party, became prime minister in 1991; his center-right coalition
was returned to office in 1995, 1999, and, narrowly, 2003. In 1996, Ólafur Ragnar Grímsson was elected to
succeed Finnbogadóttir, who retired as president. The highly popular Grímsson was reappointed to the post by
parliament without an election in 2000; he was reelected in 2004. Oddsson resigned and exchanged posts with
coalition partner and foreign minister Halldór Ásgrímsson, of the Progressive party, in Sept., 2004 (Oddsson
stepped down as foreign minister a year later). In June, 2006, after the Progressive party suffered losses in local
elections, Ásgrímsson resigned as prime minister; he was succeeded in the post by Geir Hilmar Haarde, the foreign
minister and a member of the Independence party. Following the resignation of Haarde in response to his
involvement in the Icelandic financial crisis a coalition government of the Social Democratic Alliance and the
Left-Green Movement, headed by Johanna SIGURDARDOTTIR, assumed office 1 February 2009. The ruling
coalition was victorious at a special legislative election held on 25 April 2009.
Sources: Encyclopedia.com;
arrival (c.850-875) of Norse settlers, many of whom had fled from the domination of Harold I . The Norse
settlements also contained many Irish and Scottish slaves, mainly women. In 930 a general assembly, the Althing,
was established near Reykjavík at Thingvellir, and Christianity was introduced c.1000 by the Norwegian Olaf I ,
although paganism seems to have survived for a time. These events are preserved in the literature of 13th-century
Iceland, where Old Norse literature reached its greatest flowering. (Modern Icelandic is virtually the same language
as that of the sagas.) Politically, Iceland became a feudal state, and the bloody civil wars of rival chieftains facilitated
Norwegian intervention. The attempt of Snorri Sturluson (1179-1241) to establish the full control of King Haakon
IV of Norway over Iceland was a failure; however, Haakon incorporated Iceland into the archdiocese of Trondheim
and between 1261 and 1264 obtained acknowledgment of his suzerainty by the Icelanders. Norwegian rule brought
order, but high taxes and an imposed judicial system caused much discontent. When, with Norway, Iceland passed
(1380) under the Danish crown, the Danes showed even less concern for Icelandic welfare; a national decline
(1400-1550) set in. Lutheranism was imposed by force (1539-51) over the opposition of Bishop Jon Aresson ; the
Reformation brought new intellectual activity. The 17th and 18th cent. were, in many ways, disastrous for Iceland.
English, Spanish, and Algerian pirates raided the coasts and ruined trade; epidemics and volcanic eruptions killed a
large part of the population; and the creation (1602) of a private trading company at Copenhagen, with exclusive
rights to the Iceland trade, caused economic ruin. The private trade monopoly was at last revoked in 1771 and
transferred to the Danish crown, and in 1786 trade with Iceland was opened to all Danish and Norwegian
merchants. The exclusion of foreign traders was lifted in 1854. The 19th cent. brought a rebirth of national culture
(see Icelandic literature ) and strong agitation for independence. The great leader of this movement was Jón
Sigurðsson . The Althing, abolished in 1800, was reestablished in 1843; in 1874 a constitution and limited home rule
were granted; and in 1918, Iceland became a sovereign state in personal union with Denmark. The German
occupation (1940) of Denmark in World War II gave the Althing an opportunity to assume the king's prerogatives
and the control of foreign affairs. Great Britain sent (1940) a military force to defend the island from possible German
attack, and this was replaced after 1941 by U.S. forces. In 1944 an overwhelming majority of Icelanders voted to
terminate the union with Denmark; the kingdom of Iceland was proclaimed an independent republic on June 17,
1944. Sveinn Björrnsson was the first president. Iceland was admitted to the United Nations in 1946; it joined in the
Marshall Plan and the North Atlantic Treaty Organization. In 1946, Iceland granted the United States the right to use
the American-built airport at Keflavík for military as well as commercial planes. Under a 1951 defense pact, U.S.
troops were stationed there. Björnsson was succeeded by Ásgeir Ásgeirsson. Relations with Great Britain were
strained when Iceland, in order to protect its vital fishing industry, extended (1958) the limits of its territorial waters
from 4 to 12 mi (6.4-19.3 km). The conflict, which at times led to exchanges of fire between Icelandic coast guard
vessels and British destroyers, was resolved in 1961 when Great Britain accepted the new limits. Kristjárn Eldjárn
was elected president in 1968 and reelected in 1972 and 1976. Iceland joined the European Free Trade Association
in 1970. In 1971 elections the Independence party-Social Democratic party coalition government, which had
governed for 12 years, lost its majority, and a leftist coalition came to power. The dispute with Britain over fishing
rights (widely known as the "cod wars" ) was renewed in 1972 when Iceland unilaterally extended its territorial
waters to 50 mi (80 km) offshore and forbade foreign fishing vessels in the new zone. An interim agreement was
reached in 1973, whereby the British would limit their annual catch and restrict themselves to certain fishing areas
and specified numbers and types of vessels. In Jan., 1973, the Helgafell volcano on Heimaey island erupted,
damaging the town of Vestmannaeyjar. Later in the year Iceland and the United States began revising the 1951
defense pact, with a view toward ending the U.S. military presence. U.S. forces still use the NATO base at Keflavík
Airport, and their presence continues to be a point of contention among Iceland's parties. A split in the ruling
coalition over economic policies caused the Althing to be dissolved in 1974; following elections, the Independence
party formed a new government. Iceland extended its fishing limits to 200 mi (320 km) in 1975, which, after more
skirmishes with Great Britain, was finally recognized in 1976. Vigdís Finnbogadóttir was elected president in 1980,
thus becoming the world's first popularly elected female head of state; she was reelected in 1984, 1988, and 1992.
Davíð Oddsson, of the conservative Independence party, became prime minister in 1991; his center-right coalition
was returned to office in 1995, 1999, and, narrowly, 2003. In 1996, Ólafur Ragnar Grímsson was elected to
succeed Finnbogadóttir, who retired as president. The highly popular Grímsson was reappointed to the post by
parliament without an election in 2000; he was reelected in 2004. Oddsson resigned and exchanged posts with
coalition partner and foreign minister Halldór Ásgrímsson, of the Progressive party, in Sept., 2004 (Oddsson
stepped down as foreign minister a year later). In June, 2006, after the Progressive party suffered losses in local
elections, Ásgrímsson resigned as prime minister; he was succeeded in the post by Geir Hilmar Haarde, the foreign
minister and a member of the Independence party. Following the resignation of Haarde in response to his
involvement in the Icelandic financial crisis a coalition government of the Social Democratic Alliance and the
Left-Green Movement, headed by Johanna SIGURDARDOTTIR, assumed office 1 February 2009. The ruling
coalition was victorious at a special legislative election held on 25 April 2009.
Sources: Encyclopedia.com;
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| TRAFFICKING IN PERSONS |
Isolated reports of women trafficked to, through, and possibly from the country
