Tens of thousands of women and non-binary individuals in Iceland have embarked on a one-day strike, emphasizing that gender equality remains an ongoing battle, even in a country known for its progressive strides. This demonstration draws inspiration from the “women’s day off” observed on October 24, 1975, which ignited the journey toward gender parity.
Despite Iceland’s acclaim as a global leader in gender equality, two fundamental concerns persist: the gender pay gap and gender-based violence. A report in The Guardian reveals that Icelandic women continue to earn 21% less than men in specific professions, and over 40% of women have experienced gender-based or sexual violence.
Freyja Steingrímsdóttir, a spokesperson for the Icelandic Federation for Public Workers and one of the strike’s organizers, emphasizes the importance of raising awareness. “We’re often hailed as an equality haven, but gender disparities endure, necessitating urgent action.”
Named “Kallarðu þetta jafnrétti?” (Do you call this equality?), the strike is led by labour unions and draws inspiration from the 1975 movement. Women and non-binary individuals across Iceland have come together to reject all forms of work, including paid and unpaid tasks such as household chores and childcare responsibilities.
Sectors heavily staffed by women, such as healthcare and education, are anticipated to experience significant disruptions, with many educational institutions temporarily closing or altering their schedules. Service-based industries, including hospitality, are also gearing up for notable disruptions. In an unusual move, even the national broadcaster, RUV, has opted for reduced television and radio broadcasts for the day.
A noteworthy gesture of solidarity comes from Prime Minister Katrín Jakobsdóttir, who has decided not to work on this day, and she anticipates that her female colleagues will do the same.
Crucially, the strike goes beyond gender, encouraging the participation of non-binary individuals to acknowledge that the issue stems from patriarchal thinking.
Participants are encouraged to report any attempts by workplaces to hinder their involvement in the strike. Organizers have even issued a warning that a list of such obstructing organizations may be released.
The strike’s core message underscores the interconnected nature of underpayment for women and gender-based violence, both emanating from the same societal bias that perpetuates the notion of women as inferior.
The enduring gender pay gap, where women receive lower wages than men for the same work and qualifications, remains a persistent concern in Iceland. Despite a 2018 law mandating equal pay for men and women in businesses and government agencies, occupations mainly occupied by women, like caregiving and hospitality, continue to be associated with lower wages. Migrant women, frequently in lower-tier positions, face even more pronounced disparities.
This strike transcends a simple demand for legislative changes; it’s about challenging deep-seated societal biases and prejudices that perpetuate these inequalities.
This recent strike, led by tens of thousands of women and non-binary individuals in Iceland, marks a significant moment in the ongoing quest for gender equality. While Iceland is often lauded for its achievements in this realm, the resolute commitment to bridging gaps and combatting gender-based violence remains unwavering, even in a nation regarded as a global frontrunner in gender parity.
