The President of Iceland, Halla Tómasdóttir, formally opened the 156th legislative session of Althingi yesterday, February 4. This marks the first gathering of Parliament following the general elections on November 30. Eighteen new MPs are taking their seats for the first time, and more than half of the 63-member Parliament were not in the previous session—making this the most significant renewal of Althingi in over half a century. The average age of MPs is 51.
A new government took office in December, led by Prime Minister Kristrún Frostadóttir of the Social Democratic Alliance (Samfylkingin). Two other parties, the People’s Party (Flokkur Fólksins) and the Reform Party (Vidreisn), have joined the coalition majority with Samfylkingin.
In her speech, the President welcomed the MPs and expressed gratitude for their willingness to take on demanding roles in service of the nation. She noted that with new MPs come fresh perspectives and emphasized the importance of experienced lawmakers sharing their knowledge with newcomers for the benefit of all.
Reykjavík 04/02/2025 – A7C R, RX1R II – FE 1.2/50mm GM, 2.0/35mm Z
Photography & text: Páll Stefánsson
