Iceland is heading to the polls for a legislative election following the collapse of a fragile coalition government led by Prime Minister Bjarni Benediktsson. The economy, immigration, and volcanic eruptions have been key issues leading up to the election. Polls suggest that the country may experience another political upheaval, with support for the governing parties declining.
Voters will choose 63 members of parliament, with ten parties competing for seats. Turnout is traditionally high in Iceland, with 80 percent of registered voters casting ballots in the previous parliamentary election. The country, normally holding elections in warmer months, is facing inclement weather that could affect voter turnout and the transportation of ballot boxes.
The political landscape in Iceland has been changing since the 2008 financial crisis, leading to the emergence of new parties like the Left-Green Alliance and the Pirate Party. Economic challenges, inflation, and immigration pressures have been ongoing issues, exacerbated by volcanic eruptions displacing thousands and a tourism boom creating a housing shortage.
The number of asylum seekers in Iceland has also seen a significant increase in recent years, causing tensions in the traditionally homogenous country. The government has faced criticism for its response to these issues, with complaints about slow action in providing secure housing for displaced residents. As Icelanders head to the polls, the outcome of the election could determine the country’s approach to tackling these pressing challenges.
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