Doctors in Iceland threaten strikes over stalled negotiations

Negotiations between doctors in Iceland have been slow, with frustrations running high, as their collective bargaining agreements have been expired for over four months. Steinunn Þórðardóttir, the head of the Icelandic Medical Association, has warned that strikes may become a reality if their fundamental demands are not met.

Directly after the agreements expired, the disputes were referred to the state mediator. Steinunn emphasizes the need for serious discussions to address the necessary improvements soon. She expresses hope that negotiations will resume next week, as no meetings have been scheduled post-summer break.

She notes, “I sincerely hope we do not have to resort to strikes. It is hard to predict the likelihood of this, but if these basic issues are not resolved, it is very likely because patience is wearing thin.” The pressures on medical staff have been mounting, with many overburdened due to understaffing and an inability to claim overtime or utilize vacation rights properly.

The doctors are seeking higher base salaries and shorter working hours, similar to other healthcare professions. The situation has culminated in serious concerns for doctors’ working environments, with many reducing their hours due to overwhelming stress.

It has been twenty years since Icelandic doctors last went on strike, and Steinunn indicates that the association has been preparing for a potential strike since the disputes were brought to mediation. “We are ready for this, and we know what needs to be done,” she adds, expressing regret over the slow progress and urging their counterparts to take necessary actions to avoid escalation.