Social Democrats win Iceland’s snap elections as incumbents punished
Al JazeeraDEC 2024
Social Democrats Win Iceland's Snap Election
Above: Leader of Iceland's Social Democratic Alliance party Kristrun Frostadottir reacts prior to the start of a pre-election TV debate in Reykjavik on Nov. 29, 2024, one day ahead of the upcoming parliamentary election. Image copyright: HALLDOR KOLBEINS/Contributor/AFP via Getty Images
The Spin
Left narrative
Iceland has voted for change, driven by growing frustration over economic instability, housing shortages, and immigration challenges. With inflation soaring and living costs rising, citizens demand urgent reform. Historic breakthroughs by pro-EU parties signal a desire for greater integration with Europe, promising economic growth and stability. Iceland stands ready to tackle these pressing issues with a fresh approach and renewed ambition to join the EU.
Right narrative
While a bad day for the Independence Party, the result remains better than what many had previously expected and a continued role in the next Icelandic government is not off the table. Given the damage inflicted on the two other coalition parties, things could've been a lot worse and the ability to remain in contention to become part of the next coalition is a silver lining and a testament to the hard work put into the election campaign.