Students at Akureyri Upper Secondary School raise concerns over graphic reading materials in Icelandic curriculum

Students at Akureyri Upper Secondary School (MA) have raised concerns about the required reading materials in their curriculum, pointing out that some books contain graphic descriptions of sexual violence. Two students, Paris Anna Bergmann and Ásdís Lind Vigfúsdóttir, advocate for these types of contents to be excluded from mandatory reading lists, particularly in core subjects such as Icelandic, mathematics, Danish, and English.

MA principal Karl Frímannsson appreciates the initiative taken by students to engage in this important discussion, acknowledging the challenges teachers face in addressing sensitive topics that may affect vulnerable groups. He emphasized that rather than imposing bans, educators should assess what is appropriate for their students.

Drífa Snædal, spokesperson for the organization Stígamót, and Margrét Tryggvadóttir, chair of the Icelandic Writers’ Union, further discussed the issues on a television program. They expressed concerns over the possibility of overly censoring educational materials, drawing parallels to book bans occurring in the United States. Margrét noted that while laws exist to protect minors, such as age restrictions on content, it is valid to consider the impact of potentially triggering books on students who’ve experienced trauma.

The conversation highlights a pressing issue, as Drífa revealed that about 50% of individuals seeking support from Stígamót for sexual violence have done so during their teenage years. The need for literature that empowers and resonates with students outweighs the argument for mandatory inclusion of potentially distressing materials, suggesting that opting out should be an option for those affected.