Teachers escalate strike actions amid ongoing wage negotiations in Iceland

The situation surrounding teachers’ wage negotiations in Iceland is intensifying, with a growing willingness among educators to escalate strike actions. According to the head of the Icelandic Teachers’ Association, teachers have a well-funded strike fund that is not expected to limit the scale of ongoing strike activities.

Currently, a strike is in progress across four preschools, three primary schools, one secondary school, and one music school, having begun on October 29. While the preschool strike is indefinite, the others are scheduled to last until November 22 unless an agreement is reached. Additionally, temporary strikes have been announced in three more primary schools set for November 25.

Magnús Þór Jónsson, the chair of the Teachers’ Association, describes the situation as complex, noting that no meetings have taken place over the weekend between the teachers and state or municipal authorities. There is uncertainty regarding the next steps, as a state mediator has decided against convening new negotiations.

When questioned about the responsibility of not meeting amidst ongoing educational disruptions affecting hundreds of students, Magnús emphasized the need for parties to step back and reassess based on the current situation.

Despite the ongoing actions, the association does not see a conclusion to the strikes tied to the funds in their strike pool. Teachers remain focused on advocating for increased investment in their profession and schools.

Magnús indicated significant solidarity among teachers, with additional schools expressing readiness to join the strike group, although the need for further expansion has not yet been evaluated. He affirmed the strength of their strike fund, stating it will not hinder their actions.