19th June – "better if enough should suffice"

It is fitting to look back on this day. In 1911, the Icelandic Parliament passed with a significant majority the bill presented by Hannes Hafstein for complete gender equality in education, scholarships, and offices. In 1915, on the 19th of June, the King confirmed the constitution with women's rights, which they have since retained. This should be celebrated and remembered, even 100 years later. We celebrate this today with festivities across the country. But work still needs to be done; it is clear that with equal rights for genders in education, the foundation was laid for the equality we know in this country, although it was and is not a given.

Iceland is indeed at the forefront in gender equality issues in an international comparison, but more can be done. There are still tasks we need to work on, as previously stated; attention must be paid to women's rights both domestically and abroad. The gender pay gap still exists in this country, although there are indications that it is narrowing. It is also necessary to promote and strengthen gender equality in the labour market. We must continue to use all possible means to combat gender-based violence and domestic violence; it should never be tolerated.

Here, only a few examples have been mentioned that we must continue to work on, and it is important that we mind gender equality every day and remember that the unity of women was and is strong. We must not forget that when women gathered at Austurvöllur in 1915 to celebrate the right to vote, it was decided to establish a hospital, a decision that men in Parliament had been wavering over for years. Women took on the matter, started fundraising, and the National Hospital was established.

Dear women, while we remember domestic achievements, it is good also to turn our attention to women beyond our borders. Very young girls are still being forced into marriages, female circumcision is widespread, girls are denied access to education and are even shot in the head if they decide to pursue education despite obvious danger. On this day, as on other days, we should also show support to our sisters, wherever they are in the world.

Heartfelt congratulations on the day – let us continue to be the role models that all our foremothers were.

Anna Kolbrún Árnadóttir, Chairwoman of the National Association of Framsókn Women.