July 20, 2008

Abstract: (Angus Reid Global Monitor) - The governing party is the most popular political organization in Iceland, according to a poll by Gallup published in Morgunbladid. 33 per cent of respondents would vote for the Independence Party (SSF) in the next general election.

(Angus Reid Global Monitor) - The governing party is the most popular political organization in Iceland, according to a poll by Gallup published in Morgunbladid. 33 per cent of respondents would vote for the Independence Party (SSF) in the next general election.

The centre-left Social Alliance (SF)—currently a government coalition partner—is a close second with 30 per cent, followed by the Left-Green Alliance with 20 per cent, the Progressive Party (FSF) with nine per cent, and the Liberal Party (FF) with four per cent.

In 1991, David Oddsson became prime minister, governing with a centre-right coalition led by his Independence Party. Oddsson would earn new mandates in 1995, 1999 and 2003, retaining his position as the longest serving prime minister in Europe.

In September 2004, foreign minister and Progressive Party leader Haldor Asgrimsson took over as prime minister. In June 2006, following a poor showing from the Progressives in local elections, Asgrimsson tendered his resignation as head of government and was substituted by Independence Party leader Geir Haarde.

Icelandic voters renewed the Diet in May 2007. Final results gave the Independence Party 36.6 per cent of the vote and 25 seats, followed by the Social Alliance with 26.8 per cent and 18 mandates. Haarde retained his post as prime minister, and Social Alliance leader and former Reykjavik mayor Ingibjorg Solrun Gisladottir took over as foreign minister.

Earlier this month, justice minister Bjorn Bjarnason called for Iceland to adopt the euro by reaching a special agreement with the European Union (EU). Iceland is not a member of the EU. Bjarnson rejected criticism by other colleagues—including the prime minister—to his idea, declaring, "I have said that there is not a lack of legal resources, but if there is a lack of political will, then that is a different story."

Polling Data

Which party would you vote for in the next election?

Independence Party (SSF)	33%
Social Alliance (SF)	30%
Left-Green Alliance (VG)	20%
Progressive Party (FSF)	9%
Liberal Party (FF)	4%

Source: Gallup / Morgunbladid
Methodology: Telephone interviews with 750 Icelandic voters, conducted in June 2008. No margin of error was provided.