Trade Union Rights in Iceland
Reviewed by the Commoner Law Editorial Team. Sourced from Icelandic Acts of the Althingi, statutory instruments, and official guidance. Written in plain language for general understanding — this is educational content, not legal advice. Our editorial standards
What is this right?
The right to form and join a trade union is a constitutional right in Iceland (Article 74 of the Constitution).
- Union density: Over 80% of all workers are union members — one of the highest rates in the world.
- Collective agreement coverage: Approximately 88% of the workforce.
- Binding agreements: Under Act No. 55/1980, collective agreements automatically bind all workers and employers within their scope, regardless of union membership.
- Right to strike: Protected, but restricted during the term of a valid collective agreement. Industrial disputes are handled by the State Mediator (Ríkissáttasemjari).
When does it apply?
- You are a worker in Iceland — the right to organise applies to all workers without exception.
- No prior authorisation is needed to form or join a union.
What to Do If Your Employer Interferes with Your Trade Union Rights in Iceland
- Join your sector's union — ASÍ, BSRB, and BHM are the main confederations. Your employer can direct you to the relevant union.
- If your employer interferes with your union membership, report it to the Labour Court (Félagsdómur).
- Union representatives have enhanced protection against dismissal — contact your union immediately if you face retaliation.
What should you NOT do?
- Don't let your employer discourage you from joining a union — interference with union rights is unlawful.
- Don't strike during the term of a valid collective agreement — industrial action is only permitted when the agreement has expired and mediation has been attempted.
Common Questions
Is joining a trade union a right in Iceland?
Yes. The right to form and join a trade union is a constitutional right under Article 74 of the Icelandic Constitution (Stjórnarskrá). No prior authorisation is needed to form or join a union. Over 80% of Icelandic workers are union members — one of the highest rates in the world, and collective agreement coverage is approximately 88% of the workforce.
Can I strike in Iceland?
Yes, but with limits. The right to strike is protected, however industrial action is restricted during the term of a valid collective agreement. You can only strike once the agreement has expired and mediation through the State Mediator (Ríkissáttasemjari) has been attempted. Industrial disputes during an agreement's term are handled differently under Act No. 80/1938.
What if my employer tries to stop me from joining a union?
Interference with union rights is unlawful. Report it to the Labour Court (Félagsdómur), which adjudicates breaches of Act No. 80/1938. Union representatives have enhanced protection against dismissal — contact your union immediately if you face retaliation. The main confederations are ASÍ, BSRB, and BHM, which can direct you to the right sector union.
When does it apply — trade union rights?
You are a worker in Iceland — the right to organise applies to all workers without exception.No prior authorisation is needed to form or join a union.
What should I do if my employer is discouraging me from joining a trade union in Iceland?
Join your sector's union — ASÍ, BSRB, and BHM are the main confederations. Your employer can direct you to the relevant union.If your employer interferes with your union membership, report it to the Labour Court (Félagsdómur).Union representatives have enhanced protection against dismissal — contact your union immediately if you face retaliation.
What should you NOT do — trade union rights?
Don't let your employer discourage you from joining a union — interference with union rights is unlawful.Don't strike during the term of a valid collective agreement — industrial action is only permitted when the agreement has expired and mediation has been attempted.