Minister For Children Resigns Following Scandal Over Relationship With A Minor

Minister of Education and Children’s Affairs Ásthildur Lóa Þórsdóttir has announced her resignation. She revealed her decision in an interview with RÚV, shortly after the broadcaster reported on her past relationship with a 15-year-old boy, which resulted in the birth of a child.

The Minister had a romantic relationship with the boy, who she met him while leading youth activities at a religious congregation. He has accused her of obstructing his parental access. Confidential information about the case was also leaked to the prime minister.

What we know so far

The disgraced People’s Party (Flokkur fólksins) MP began a romantic relationship with a 15-year-old boy 35 years ago, when she was 22, and gave to their son a year later. The two met when Ásthildur Lóa was leading youth activities at the religious congregation Trú og líf (Faith and Life) in Kópavogur, which the boy, Eiríkur Ásmundsson, attended while facing difficult circumstances at home. Eiríkur claims Ásthildur Lóa obstructed access to their child while still demanding child support payments for 18 years.

Eiríkur confirmed the relationship began shortly after he joined the congregation. Their son was conceived soon after Eiríkur turned 16, and Ásthildur Lóa was 23.

Although the relationship was kept private, Eiríkur was allowed to attend the birth and had some contact with his son during the first year. However, these visits were inconsistent due to his financial struggles, lack of support and inability to drive, as they lived in different municipalities.

Eiríkur claims Ásthildur Lóa initially facilitated visits, but this changed when she met her husband. He sought support from the Ministry of Justice and the church’s family services to gain access to his son. Documents obtained by RÚV confirm these efforts, showing that Ásthildur Lóa restricted his access.

According to Eiríkur, he was granted only two hours of visitation per month at the home of Ásthildur Lóa and her husband, amounting to a single day per year. Despite the limited contact, he paid child support for 18 years.

Age of consent and legal context

Under Icelandic law, individuals under 18 are considered minors, but the age of consent is 15. However, it is illegal for an adult to engage in a sexual relationship with someone under 18 if they hold a position of authority, such as a teacher or mentor. It is also unlawful if the minor is financially dependent on the adult or under their care in a position of trust. Violations can result in up to three years in prison.

Eiríkur has stated that he never saw himself as a victim, though he acknowledged the difficulties he faced as a teenager. He described his youth as challenging due to family issues.

Resignation and reaction

A week ago, the Prime Minister’s Office received a complaint about the matter from one of Eiríkur’s relatives. The office assured the sender of confidentiality. However, Ásthildur Lóa was informed of the complaint’s details, including the sender’s identity. She subsequently contacted the relative and visited their home.

Following the revelations, Ásthildur Lóa gave an interview to RÚV, announcing her decision to resign. While she is stepping down from her ministerial role, she will remain a member of parliament.

“The Prime Minister understood that the situation was not as it might seem at first glance,” Ásthildur Lóa said after informing Prime Minister Kristrún Frostadóttir of her decision.

“This personal matter from 35 years ago should not overshadow the important work the government is doing. That work is more significant than the responsibilities I have been fulfilling in the Ministry of Education, which I deeply regret leaving unfinished,” she added.

Ásthildur Lóa maintained that her past did not disqualify her from serving as a minister, emphasising her long career working with children.

“I am not the same person I was at 22 years old,” she said.