Iceland's centre-right government collapsed in January following the country's bankruptcy as a result of the global financial turmoil (EurActiv 30/01/09). Since then, the country has been governed by a centre-left coalition under interim Prime Minister Johanna Sigurdardottir.
Last weekend (29 March), Sigurdardottir was formally elected leader of the Social Democrats, clearing the way for her to continue as prime minister if, as current polling indicates, the left gains a majority in the April ballot.
In her acceptance speech, Sigurdardottir said she wants to continue working with the Left-Greens, ensuring that the centre-right Independence Party – which many hold responsible for Iceland's economic woes - remains in opposition. The chairman of the Left-Greens, Steingrímur J. Sigfússon, praised the declaration, arguing that it makes the choice easier for voters come election day.
However, the "Europe question" remains a controversial issue. The Social Democrats want to discuss EU membership with Europe as soon as possible and then put it to the Icelandic people in a referendum.
The Left-Greens, meanwhile, believes that Iceland's future is best served outside the EU, particularly as regards the emotive issue of national control over fishing rights.
Nevertheless, the parties have come to an arrangement whereby both sides agree a referendum can be held. Sigfússon said that his party is certainly not against a referendum, but feels it should not be held without a lengthy national debate on the issue.
"I don't feel that any doors have been closed on cooperation or the treatment of this matter," Sigfússon said, arguing that "the political life in this country must be able to treat this big issue in a sophisticated, constructive and democratic manner."
Current polling places the Social Democrats at approximately 30%, with the Left-Greens on 26% and the opposition Independence Party at 24%.
Polls from early march indicated that a whopping 64% of Icelanders want to enter into membership negotiations with the EU, though only 40% are currently in favour of joining the 27-member bloc.
