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News
Human Rights & Equality
Iceland Joins the United Nations Human Rights Council
On January 1, 2025, Iceland officially took its seat as a member of the United Nations Human Rights Council for a three-year term, which will run until the end of 2027.This marks a pivotal moment for Iceland, as the nation assumes a vital role in advancing human rights globally. Reflecting on this significant responsibility, Thorgerður Katrín Gunnarsdóttir, Minister for Foreign Affairs, stated:
Elections
New Government Takes Office in Iceland on 21 December 2024
A coalition government formed by the Social Democratic Alliance, the Liberal Reform Party, and the People’s Party officially took office on 21 December 2024. The new administration is led by Kristrún Frostadóttir, chairperson of the Social Democratic Alliance, who assumes the role of Prime Minister. The State Council, presided over by the President of Iceland, Halla Tómasdóttir, convened to mark this transition.
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Elections
New Faces and Political Shifts in Alþingi Following 2024 Elections
The results of Iceland's parliamentary elections held on November 30, 2024, have brought significant change to Alþingi, Iceland's parliament. With 34 out of 63 members being newcomers, the composition of Alþingi signals a period of political renewal, though not without familiar faces returning to the scene.
Public Safety & Security
Volcanic Activity Resumes on Reykjanes Peninsula: What You Need to Know
On November 20, 2024, just before midnight, a new fissure eruption began near the Sundhnúksgígar crater on the Reykjanes Peninsula. This marks the seventh volcanic eruption in the area since December 2023, highlighting the region's dynamic geological activity.
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Tourism
October Brings Record Departures for Foreign Travelers in Iceland
October 2024 marked another milestone for Iceland’s tourism sector, as 213,000 foreign travelers departed from Keflavík Airport, according to the Icelandic Tourist Board. This figure represents an increase of 10,000 departures compared to the same month last year, showcasing Iceland’s continued allure as a global travel destination.
Public Safety & Security
A New Volcanic Era: Iceland’s Geothermal Breakthrough
Icelanders have always lived alongside their volcanoes, and these powerful natural features have both given and taken away. While they often pose a threat, they are also a key source of Iceland’s abundant geothermal energy. Recent volcanic eruptions have dramatically affected areas like Grindavik, forcing residents to evacuate as lava has destroyed homes and roads. However, these volcanoes are also being harnessed as a new frontier in clean energy production.
Business & Industry
Iceland's Shorter Workweek: A New Path to Productivity and Well-being
In recent years, Iceland has made headlines for its progressive approach to workplace reform by experimenting with a shorter working week. This move aims to improve work-life balance, enhance employee well-being, and increase productivity—all without compromising economic performance. The idea of working fewer hours while maintaining the same pay is revolutionary, and Iceland’s success in this venture is setting a precedent for other countries to follow.
Business & Industry
Carbfix: Transforming CO₂ into Stone for a Sustainable Future
Carbfix is a revolutionary company based in Iceland that offers a unique solution to combat climate change by turning carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions into stone. Their method is a natural and permanent way of capturing and storing CO₂, leveraging Iceland's volcanic rock formations and the unique properties of basalt to mineralize CO₂ in less than two years. This approach provides a sustainable and cost-effective alternative to conventional carbon capture and storage techniques.
Business & Industry
Pioneering Wound Healing: Kerecis Omega3 Fish Skin Technology
In recent years, medical advancements have transformed how wounds are treated, especially with the help of natural resources. Kerecis, an Icelandic company, is at the forefront of this innovation with its Omega3-rich fish skin technology. This unique approach harnesses the healing properties of fish skin, offering an effective and sustainable solution for wound care, especially for chronic and severe injuries.
Business & Industry
Icelandic Fisheries: Technological Advancements and Sustainability
Iceland's fisheries sector plays a vital role in the nation's economy, culture, and food supply. Over 98% of the country’s seafood is exported globally, making Iceland a leader in high-quality, sustainable fish products. With advancements in technology and a strong commitment to sustainability, Iceland has successfully combined traditional fishing methods with modern innovation to preserve its marine resources.
Elections
Prime Minister Bjarni Benediktsson Submits Government’s Resignation
On October 15, 2024, Iceland’s Prime Minister, Bjarni Benediktsson, met with President Halla Tómasdóttir to formally submit the resignation of his government. The President accepted the resignation and requested that Benediktsson’s administration continue as a caretaker government until a new government is formed following the upcoming parliamentary elections on November 30.
Public Safety & Security
Iceland Ranks Among Top Countries for Cyber Security
Iceland has solidified its position as a leader in the field of cyber security, ranking 10th among European nations and placing in the top 10% worldwide in the 2024 International Telecommunication Union's cyber security index. This leap from 31st place in 2020 highlights the country's significant strides in enhancing its cyber resilience. Iceland's score of 99.1 out of 100 is based on five key pillars of cyber security, including legal frameworks, technical measures, organizational strategies, capacity-building efforts, and international cooperation.
Foreign Affairs
President Halla Tómasdóttir Embarks on Her First State Visit to Denmark
Iceland’s President, Halla Tómasdóttir, along with her husband Björn Skúlason, has commenced her first official state visit to Denmark. The visit, which follows the custom for newly elected Icelandic presidents, highlights the strong historical and cultural bonds between Iceland and Denmark. The Danish King, Frederik X, hosts the visit, which will include an official reception at Amalienborg Palace.
Business & Industry
Iceland Could Become a Hub for Space-Based Solar Power Reception
Space Solar, Reykjavik Energy, and Transition Labs have joined forces to explore the use of satellites to capture the sun’s energy in orbit and send it back to Earth. This energy would be transmitted via radio waves to ground stations in Iceland, enabling uninterrupted solar energy collection.
Human Rights & Equality
Iceland Secures Seat on UN Human Rights Council
Iceland has been elected to serve on the United Nations Human Rights Council for a three-year term from 2025 to 2027, receiving broad international support with 174 out of 183 votes. The country plans to focus on promoting gender equality, children’s rights, and LGBTQI+ rights during its tenure. Iceland had previously served a partial term from 2018-2019.