Opinion: Immigrants In Iceland Must Exercise Their Right To Vote

Iceland has a growing immigrant population that enriches its economy, culture and communities. Yet, despite many immigrants having the right to vote in parliamentary elections, participation rates remain low. Voting is a powerful way to shape Iceland’s future and ensure it reflects values people care deeply about. Environmental protection, gender equality, global peace, freedom, diversity, inclusion and social justice are not just ideals; they are essential foundations for a fair and sustainable society.

Immigrants’ lack of engagement in elections is concerning, especially as right-wing ideals gain influence and promote restrictive policies on immigration, family reunification, and even border closure. Voting allows immigrants to support representatives and policies that understand their challenges, value inclusivity, and promote equality. Moreover, right-wing ideals push agendas that include using Iceland’s natural assets — like land, marine life and energy resources — for commercial gain, often disregarding long-term environmental consequences. For example, they might support whale hunting or expanded exploitation of Icelandic land, prioritising profits over preserving ecosystems and respecting wildlife.

Don’t stay silent

If immigrant communities do not speak up, it can be easier for political voices that oppose their interests to gain ground, leading to policies that may marginalise these communities or make their life in Iceland more challenging.
Choosing not to vote doesn’t just affect the individual who abstains — it affects the entire community. When immigrants stay silent on election day, they lose their say in shaping Iceland’s future and allow others to make decisions that could limit their rights, opportunities, and quality of life.

If immigrant communities do not speak up, it can be easier for political voices that oppose their interests to gain ground, leading to policies that may marginalise these communities or make their life in Iceland more challenging. It’s important to remember that political decisions touch every aspect of daily life, from education and healthcare to social services and immigration policies. Voting enables immigrants to support policies that foster equality and fairness and to oppose measures that could restrict their rights.

The Key to Informed Voting

Democratic societies are built on the principle that everyone with the right to vote should participate in decision-making. For those with parliamentary voting rights, now is the time to get involved, as elections will be held on November 30.

People can make an informed decision by reading the policies or platforms of Iceland’s political parties. Each party publishes policies that outline its core principles, objectives, and stance on various issues. By being informed, people can learn which parties support policies aligning with their values.

Take a step

Now is the time to take that next step. Voting is more than a single action—it’s a statement about the kind of future we want for ourselves, our families, our society and Iceland’s beautiful nature. Each vote contributes to a collective vision, one that prioritises not only economic prosperity but the well-being of all people and the preservation of our shared natural heritage. Participating makes our voices heard and can contribute not only to our present but to the quality of life for Iceland’s future generations. Now is the moment to be part of that positive change—to vote for leaders and policies that champion a better Iceland for all.

Paola Cardenas, PhD in psychology, ranks 3rd on the list of The Left-Green Movement in the Southwestern constituency.

Follow along with the Grapevine’s 2024 election coverage.