From Ambassador（President visit to Japan and gender equality)
2025/6/27
Iceland has several No.1s in the world. Among them, the 16-year consecutive top-ranking of gender gap index is most overwhelming. During the visit of President Halla Tómasdóttir to Japan in May, I was able to witness discussion on gender equality at various occasions. Let me recapture some notable points. I welcome any criticism due to my insufficient understanding.
If I may add, President said Iceland is a bit crazy among the Nordic countries, however, craziness is necessary for us to effect changes of the world. This reminds me that some time ago I talked one Parliamentarian of Iceland and asked if Icelanders are not afraid of being different from others. She responded that she teaches her child “You should be different.” That might be an important ability in the current world.
Including gender equality, Iceland has abundant capacity of absorption and evolution.
- In 1975, women’s strike took place, as they collectively abandoned work and domestic work. It was a historical gender revolution, and five-year later, a female President was elected in Iceland in 1980, for the first time in the world with a strong impact. In the course of 50 years since 1975, Iceland has never had an easy way to attain gender equality but won through struggle. For example, maternity leave including the father was implemented only in 2001.
- Gender equality can be achieved not by policy but by social improvement through dialogue. Men and women equally have responsibilities both at work and at home. The significance of the 1975 strike was to make people recognize how valuable domestic work like cleaning and washing is and how important those women at that time who bear domestic work are. While listening the concerns and worries of men, it is important for us to respect diversity and to reflect views with each other. It is with such diversity that we can achieve well-being of society.
- Japan is outstanding in terms of quality and peace. With its goals are set, Japan can achieve them.
If I may add, President said Iceland is a bit crazy among the Nordic countries, however, craziness is necessary for us to effect changes of the world. This reminds me that some time ago I talked one Parliamentarian of Iceland and asked if Icelanders are not afraid of being different from others. She responded that she teaches her child “You should be different.” That might be an important ability in the current world.
Including gender equality, Iceland has abundant capacity of absorption and evolution.