Iceland Governing Coalition Dissolved, Elections Set

Iceland's Prime Minister Bjarni Benediktsson announced the dissolution of the three-party governing coalition on October 13, citing ongoing political disagreements, particularly regarding asylum seekers and energy policy. He proposed fresh parliamentary elections set for November 30, contingent on President Halla Tómasdóttir's acceptance of the dissolution motion. The coalition, which included Benediktsson's Independence Party, the Progressive Party, and the Left-Green Movement, has faced increasing tensions as public support dwindled to 24.6%, the lowest in three decades. Benediktsson emphasized the need for a unified vision within the government, pointing out that critical issues were inadequately addressed during the last election. He is expected to meet with the president to finalize the details of the dissolution. This political shakeup follows broader economic pressures in Iceland, including inflation and recent volcanic eruptions affecting communities.