Iceland
- Boundary Delimitation
- Direct Democracy
- Electoral Management
- Electoral Systems
- Legislative Framework
- Media and Elections
- Parties and Candidates
- Vote Counting
- Voter Education
- Voting Operations
- Voter Registration
Boundary Delimitation
BD01 Are constituencies delimited for election purposes?
a. Yes
Comments: The country is divided into six constituencies whose boundaries are determined by the act on parliamentary elections, art. 31.
Source: Björn Fridfinnsson, Ministry of Justice and Ecclesiastical Affairs, bjorn.fridfinnsson(a)dkm.stjr.is
Last updated: 2006-12-11 11:04:48 UTC
BD02 The authority responsible for final approval of the constituency boundaries is:
a. The legislature (national/subnational)
Source: Björn Fridfinnsson, Ministry of Justice and Ecclesiastical Affairs, bjorn.fridfinnsson(a)dkm.stjr.is
Last updated: Thu, 11 Jul 2002 12:52:36 GMT
BD03 On what criteria are the boundaries drawn?
a. "Equality" of population
Source: Björn Fridfinnsson, Ministry of Justice and Ecclesiastical Affairs, bjorn.fridfinnsson(a)dkm.stjr.is
Last updated: Thu, 11 Jul 2002 12:53:06 GMT
BD04 If population is a criterion, which population figure is used?
c. Number of registered voters
Source: Björn Fridfinnsson, Ministry of Justice and Ecclesiastical Affairs, bjorn.fridfinnsson(a)dkm.stjr.is
Last updated: Thu, 11 Jul 2002 12:53:38 GMT
Direct Democracy
DD01 Please provide information about the person completing the questionnaire.
a. Name and Title: Hanna Berheim
b. Job Title: Research Assistant
c. Organisation: International IDEA
Last updated: 2006-12-01 14:14:21 UTC
DD02 Which forms of direct democracy, if any, are currently possible at the national level?
Please check the glossary for the definition of the following terms:
a. Mandatory referendum
b. Optional referendum
Comments: C:79 "Proposals to amend or supplement this Constitution may be introduced at regular as well as extraordinary sessions of Althingi. If the proposal is adopted, Althingi shall immediately be dissolved and a general election held. If Althingi then passes the resolution unchanged, it shall be confirmed by the President of the Republic and come into force as constitutional law. If Althingi passes an amendment to the status of the Church under Article 62, it shall be submitted to a vote for approval or rejection by secret ballot of all those eligible to vote."
Source: Constitution of the Republic of Iceland, art. 79
Last updated: 2006-12-01 14:48:18 UTC
DD03 What is the legal basis for mandatory referendums at the national level?
a. Constitutional
Comments: C:79 "Proposals to amend or supplement this Constitution may be introduced at regular as well as extraordinary sessions of Althingi. If the proposal is adopted, Althingi shall immediately be dissolved and a general election held. If Althingi then passes the resolution unchanged, it shall be confirmed by the President of the Republic and come into force as constitutional law. If Althingi passes an amendment to the status of the Church under Article 62, it shall be submitted to a vote for approval or rejection by secret ballot of all those eligible to vote."
Source: Constitution of the Republic of Iceland, art. 79
Last updated: 2006-12-01 14:48:18 UTC
DD04 What is the legal basis for optional referendums at the national level?
a. Constitutional
Last updated: 2006-12-01 14:48:18 UTC
DD05 What is the legal basis for citizens' initiatives at the national level?
e. Not applicable
Last updated: 2006-12-01 14:48:18 UTC
DD06 What is the legal basis for agenda initiatives at the national level?
e. Not applicable
Last updated: 2006-12-01 14:48:18 UTC
DD07 What is the legal basis for recalls at the national level?
e. Not applicable
Last updated: 2006-12-01 14:48:18 UTC
DD10 What is the legal basis for the administrative requirements for citizens' initiatives at the national level?
Tick as appropriate and specify the relevant constitutional, legal or regulatory provisions below.
e. Not applicable
Last updated: 2006-12-01 14:50:56 UTC
DD11 What is the legal basis for the administrative requirements for agenda initiatives at the national level?
Tick as appropriate and specify the relevant constitutional, legal or regulatory provisions below.
e. Not applicable
Last updated: 2006-12-01 14:50:56 UTC
DD12 What is the legal basis for the administrative requirements for recalls at the national level? Tick as appropriate and specify the relevant constitutional, legal or regulatory provisions below.
e. Not applicable
Last updated: 2006-12-01 14:50:56 UTC
DD124 If free media access is provided, what are the criteria for allocating broadcast time / printing space?
Last updated: 2006-12-01 14:14:21 UTC
DD126 What restrictions or controls, if any, are there on media coverage of the campaign and/or issue during the relevant period?
Last updated: 2006-12-01 14:14:21 UTC
DD13 When were direct democracy mechanisms first introduced into the legal framework at the national level?
Date (yyyy)
Last updated: 2006-12-01 14:14:21 UTC
DD14 When was an administrative framework for direct democracy mechanisms first introduced at the national level? Date (yyyy)
Last updated: 2006-12-01 14:14:21 UTC
DD27 What are the issues, if any, in relation to which referendums are mandatory at the national level?
j. Other (specify)
Comments: j) Changes of the status of the church. C:79 "Proposals to amend or supplement this Constitution may be introduced at regular as well as extraordinary sessions of Althingi. If the proposal is adopted, Althingi shall immediately be dissolved and a general election held. If Althingi then passes the resolution unchanged, it shall be confirmed by the President of the Republic and come into force as constitutional law. If Althingi passes an amendment to the status of the Church under Article 62, it shall be submitted to a vote for approval or rejection by secret ballot of all those eligible to vote."
Source: Constitution of the Republic of Iceland, art. 79
Last updated: 2006-12-01 15:26:44 UTC
DD38 What, if any, are the quorum requirements for a mandatory referendum to be valid? Please specify numbers/percentages.
Last updated: 2006-12-01 14:14:21 UTC
DD39 What, if any, are the quorum requirements for a optional referendum to be valid? Please specify numbers/percentages.
Last updated: 2006-12-01 14:14:21 UTC
DD67 What restrictions, if any, are there in relation to the time period in which an individual/position can be recalled?
Last updated: 2006-12-01 14:14:21 UTC
DD70 If a separate ballot to replace an individual who has been recalled takes place, how soon after the recall ballot is it held?
Last updated: 2006-12-01 14:14:21 UTC
DD72 How many verified signatures are required to start the formal decision-making stage for an abrogative referendum (optional)?
Indicate figures in the appropriate boxes. If more than one answer exists for any individual box, explain in the comment section.
Last updated: 2006-12-01 14:14:21 UTC
DD73 How many verified signatures are required to start the formal decision-making stage for a rejective referendum (optional)?
Indicate figures in the appropriate boxes. If more than one answer exists for any individual box, explain in the comment section.
Last updated: 2006-12-01 14:14:21 UTC
DD74 How many verified signatures are required to start the formal decision-making stage for a citizens' initiative?
Indicate figures in the appropriate boxes. If more than one answer exists for any individual box, explain in the comment section.
Last updated: 2006-12-01 14:14:21 UTC
DD75 How many verified signatures are required to start the formal decision-making stage for an agenda initiative?
Indicate figures in the appropriate boxes. If more than one answer exists for any individual box, explain in the comment section.
Last updated: 2006-12-01 14:14:21 UTC
Electoral Management
EM01 Please provide the following contact information for the national electoral management body:
a. Name of Institution Landskjörstórn
b. Full Address C/O Althingi 1 (Parliament), 150 Reykjavik, Iceland.
c. Telephone 354 563 0500
d. Facsimile 354 563 0520
e. Email Not applicable
f. Website Address http://www.althingi.is
g. Name and Title of Chairperson/President Gestur Jonsson
h. Information Officer Einar Farestveit
i. Official language of the electoral law governing national elections Icelandic
Last updated: 2006-12-11 11:03:49 UTC
EM02 Does this national electoral body have the responsibility for elections at:
a. National level
Comments: The National Election Board is only partially reasponsible for the preparation and management of parliamentary elections. The Ministry of Justice manages certain parts of the preparations.
Source: Björn Fridfinnsson, Ministry of Justice and Ecclesiastical Affairs, bjorn.fridfinnsson(a)dkm.stjr.is
Last updated: Thu, 11 Jul 2002 12:40:22 GMT
EM03 The national electoral management body reports to:
c. The legislature
Source: Björn Fridfinnsson, Ministry of Justice and Ecclesiastical Affairs, bjorn.fridfinnsson(a)dkm.stjr.is
Last updated: Thu, 11 Jul 2002 12:40:56 GMT
EM04 The budget of the national electoral management body is determined by:
c. The legislature
Source: Björn Fridfinnsson, Ministry of Justice and Ecclesiastical Affairs, bjorn.fridfinnsson(a)dkm.stjr.is
Last updated: Thu, 11 Jul 2002 12:41:26 GMT
EM05 The expenditures of the national electoral management body are controlled by:
c. The legislature
Source: Björn Fridfinnsson, Ministry of Justice and Ecclesiastical Affairs, bjorn.fridfinnsson(a)dkm.stjr.is
Last updated: Thu, 11 Jul 2002 12:41:59 GMT
EM06 The term of the members of the national electoral management body is:
b. For a term of _________ years
Comments: b) 4 years. In Article 12 of the Election Act 2000, it is stipulated that the parliament shall after every ordinary parliament election choose 5 members to this board.
Source: Article 12 of the Election Act 2000
Last updated: 2008-01-21 13:27:58 UTC
EM07 The national electoral management body chairperson, or equivalent, is chosen in the following way:
b. Legislative appointment
Source: Björn Fridfinnsson, Ministry of Justice and Ecclesiastical Affairs, bjorn.fridfinnsson(a)dkm.stjr.is
Last updated: Thu, 11 Jul 2002 12:42:55 GMT
EM08 According to official sources, what was the estimated overall cost (in US dollars if available) of the most recent national elections?
a. estimated total: 1000000
b. Exchange rate used 1US$ = 84 IKR
Comments: Exact figure difficult to estimate since part of the cost is borne by the local authorities in Iceland (111 local authorities) and no study has been made of their exact cost.
Source: Bjorn Friofinnsson, Ministry of Justice and Ecclesiastical Affairs (May 2002)
Last updated: 2008-01-21 13:27:58 UTC
EM09 What was the total number of registered voters or, where there was no voter roll, the estimated number of eligible voters?
a. Total number: 2
Last updated: 2006-12-11 11:01:52 UTC
EM10 What was the spending (in USD) per registered voter (NOT actual voters) or, where there was no voter roll, the estimated number of eligible voters at the last general elections?
a. USD/registered voter 5
b. Exchange rate used 1 USD = 84 IKR
Last updated: Tue, 09 Apr 2002 17:37:20 GMT
EM11 What are the approximate proportions (%) of total election expenditure for the last national elections devoted to the following?
b. Election Management Body administration 40% (materials included)
i. Polling operations 60% (including Vote tabulation)
j. Vote tabulation 60% (including polling operations)
Last updated: Tue, 09 Apr 2002 17:39:39 GMT
Electoral Systems
ES01 How is the Head of State selected?
b. Directly elected in general elections (simple majority)
Comments: The title of the Head of State is President of Iceland.
Source: Björn Fridfinnsson, Ministry of Justice and Ecclesiastical Affairs, bjorn.fridfinnsson(a)dkm.stjr.is
Last updated: Thu, 11 Jul 2002 12:07:07 GMT
ES02 How is the Head of Government selected?
c. Indirectly elected by legislature/chosen by parliament
Comments: The parties or party which form the government nominate the candidate for a prime minister. The president appoints the ministers in consultation with the party(s) concerned. The government needs a parliamentary majority.
Source: Björn Fridfinnsson, Ministry of Justice and Ecclesiastical Affairs, bjorn.fridfinnsson(a)dkm.stjr.is
Last updated: Thu, 11 Jul 2002 12:13:35 GMT
ES03 Does the country have a president?
a. Yes
Source: Björn Fridfinnsson, Ministry of Justice and Ecclesiastical Affairs, bjorn.fridfinnsson(a)dkm.stjr.is
Last updated: Thu, 11 Jul 2002 12:13:08 GMT
ES04 The national legislature consists of (one/two chambers):
a. One chamber
Source: Björn Fridfinnsson, Ministry of Justice and Ecclesiastical Affairs, bjorn.fridfinnsson(a)dkm.stjr.is
Last updated: Thu, 11 Jul 2002 12:17:49 GMT
ES05 What is the electoral system for Chamber 1 of the national legislature?
g. List Proportional Representation
Comments: There is only one chamber in the Icelandic Parliament.
Source: Björn Fridfinnsson, Ministry of Justice and Ecclesiastical Affairs, bjorn.fridfinnsson(a)dkm.stjr.is
Last updated: Thu, 11 Jul 2002 12:18:28 GMT
ES06 What is the electoral system for Chamber 2 of the national legislature?
k. The national legislature consists of one chamber only
Source: Björn Fridfinnsson, Ministry of Justice and Ecclesiastical Affairs, bjorn.fridfinnsson(a)dkm.stjr.is
Last updated: Thu, 11 Jul 2002 12:19:05 GMT
ES07 If List PR is used, is a highest average formula used?
a. d'Hondt Formula
Source: Björn Fridfinnsson, Ministry of Justice and Ecclesiastical Affairs, bjorn.fridfinnsson(a)dkm.stjr.is
Last updated: Thu, 11 Jul 2002 12:19:58 GMT
ES08 What is the level at which seats are distributed in Chamber 1?
b. Specially delimited constituencies
Source: Björn Fridfinnsson, Ministry of Justice and Ecclesiastical Affairs, bjorn.fridfinnsson(a)dkm.stjr.is
Last updated: Thu, 11 Jul 2002 12:20:33 GMT
ES09 What is the level at which seats are distributed in Chamber 2?
d. Not applicable
Comments: There is only one chamber in the Icelandic Parliament.
Source: Björn Fridfinnsson, Ministry of Justice and Ecclesiastical Affairs, bjorn.fridfinnsson(a)dkm.stjr.is
Last updated: Thu, 11 Jul 2002 12:21:21 GMT
ES10 Are special constituencies or seats reserved in Chamber 1 for specific groups, such as minorities, specific nationality or other groups?
b. No
Source: Björn Fridfinnsson, Ministry of Justice and Ecclesiastical Affairs, bjorn.fridfinnsson(a)dkm.stjr.is
Last updated: Thu, 11 Jul 2002 12:21:54 GMT
ES11 If special constituencies or seats are reserved in Chamber 1, specify which interest groups, and the proportion of total seats reserved for:
Last updated: Tue, 14 May 2002 14:26:16 GMT
ES12 Are special constituencies or seats reserved in Chamber 2 for specific groups, such as minorities, specific nationality or other groups?
c. The national legislature consists of one chamber only
Source: Björn Fridfinnsson, Ministry of Justice and Ecclesiastical Affairs, bjorn.fridfinnsson(a)dkm.stjr.is
Last updated: Thu, 11 Jul 2002 12:22:33 GMT
ES13 If special constituencies or seats are reserved in Chamber 2, specify which interest groups, and the proportion of total seats reserved:
e. Not applicable Na
Last updated: Tue, 14 May 2002 14:28:06 GMT
ES14 What is the legally imposed minimum threshold of votes required by a party to win seats in Chamber 1?
a. No minimum
Source: Björn Fridfinnsson, Ministry of Justice and Ecclesiastical Affairs, bjorn.fridfinnsson(a)dkm.stjr.is
Last updated: Thu, 11 Jul 2002 12:23:14 GMT
ES15 What is the legally imposed minimum threshold of votes required by a party to win seats in Chamber 2?
c. Not applicable
Source: Björn Fridfinnsson, Ministry of Justice and Ecclesiastical Affairs, bjorn.fridfinnsson(a)dkm.stjr.is
Last updated: Thu, 11 Jul 2002 12:24:19 GMT
ES16 What is the legally imposed minimum threshold of votes required by a candidate (independent/party) to win a seat in Chamber 1?
a. No minimum
Source: Björn Fridfinnsson, Ministry of Justice and Ecclesiastical Affairs, bjorn.fridfinnsson(a)dkm.stjr.is
Last updated: Thu, 11 Jul 2002 12:24:59 GMT
ES17 What is the legally imposed minimum threshold of votes required by a candidate (independent/party) to win a seat in Chamber 2?
c. Not applicable
Comments: The national legislature only consists of one chamber.
Source: Björn Fridfinnsson, Ministry of Justice and Ecclesiastical Affairs, bjorn.fridfinnsson(a)dkm.stjr.is
Last updated: Thu, 11 Jul 2002 12:25:32 GMT
ES18 Regarding the timing of the elections for Chamber 1, which of the following is true? Elections take place:
a. At fixed intervals (specify length)
Comments: Parliament is elected for a period of four years, but it can be dissolved earlier and new elections called for.
Source: Björn Fridfinnsson, Ministry of Justice and Ecclesiastical Affairs, bjorn.fridfinnsson(a)dkm.stjr.is
Last updated: Thu, 11 Jul 2002 12:26:00 GMT
ES19 Regarding the timing of the elections for Chamber 2, which of the following is true? Elections take place:
e. Not applicable
Comments: The national legislature only consists of one chamber.
Source: Björn Fridfinnsson, Ministry of Justice and Ecclesiastical Affairs, bjorn.fridfinnsson(a)dkm.stjr.is
Last updated: Thu, 11 Jul 2002 12:26:29 GMT
ES20 Regarding Chamber 1 elections (excluding advance voting, postal voting, etc):
a. Voting takes place on one day
Source: Björn Fridfinnsson, Ministry of Justice and Ecclesiastical Affairs, bjorn.fridfinnsson(a)dkm.stjr.is
Last updated: Thu, 11 Jul 2002 12:27:10 GMT
ES21 Regarding Chamber 2 elections (excluding advance voting, postal voting, etc):
c. Not applicable
Comments: The national legislature only consists of one chamber.
Source: Björn Fridfinnsson, Ministry of Justice and Ecclesiastical Affairs, bjorn.fridfinnsson(a)dkm.stjr.is
Last updated: Thu, 11 Jul 2002 12:27:39 GMT
Legislative Framework
LF01 What is the status of the electoral law governing national elections?
a. Part of Constitution
b. Separate legislation
Comments: a) Chapter III, art. 31-33 and chapter IV, art. 45-46 b) Act on elections for Parliament no. 24, 16.May 2000. The number of members of Parliament and number of constituencies is prescribed in art 31. of the constitution and the main rules on the right to vote and the right to stand for election are given in art. 33-34
Source: Björn Fridfinnsson, Ministry of Justice and Ecclesiastical Affairs, bjorn.fridfinnsson(a)dkm.stjr.is
Last updated: 2006-11-21 19:29:17 UTC
LF02 What is the date of the latest version of the national electoral law (including latest amendments)?
a. January 2000 or later
Comments: The present Act on elections for Parliament is no.24, 16 May 2000.
Source: Björn Fridfinnsson, Ministry of Justice and Ecclesiastical Affairs, bjorn.fridfinnsson(a)dkm.stjr.is
Last updated: Thu, 11 Jul 2002 12:30:15 GMT
LF03 The national electoral law covers:
a. National elections
Comments: It covers national elections for parliament and presidential elections (with special provisions).
Source: Björn Fridfinnsson, Ministry of Justice and Ecclesiastical Affairs, bjorn.fridfinnsson(a)dkm.stjr.is
Last updated: Thu, 11 Jul 2002 12:32:09 GMT
LF04 Is voting on the national level voluntary or compulsory?
a. Voting is voluntary
Source: Björn Fridfinnsson, Ministry of Justice and Ecclesiastical Affairs, bjorn.fridfinnsson(a)dkm.stjr.is; International IDEA Voter Turnout Website (http://www.idea.int/vt/)
Last updated: 2006-11-21 19:28:55 UTC
LF05 Are there provisions in the law which permit or require regional and/ or local election (s) to be held on the same day as national elections?
a. National elections are not held on the same day as regional or local elections
Source: Björn Fridfinnsson, Ministry of Justice and Ecclesiastical Affairs, bjorn.fridfinnsson(a)dkm.stjr.is
Last updated: Thu, 11 Jul 2002 12:33:20 GMT
LF06 Are there provisions in the law which permit or require presidential election (s) to be held on the same day as national legislative elections?
a. Presidential elections are not held on the same day as national legislative elections
Comments: There are no such provisions but highly unlikely that presidential elections would be held simultaneously with other elections.
Source: Björn Fridfinnsson, Ministry of Justice and Ecclesiastical Affairs, bjorn.fridfinnsson(a)dkm.stjr.is
Last updated: Thu, 11 Jul 2002 12:33:59 GMT
LF07 What are the agency(ies) responsible for first level of formal electoral disputes?
b. EMB
Comments: b) Regional EMB:s. Formal electoral disputes can be divided into two categories. Disputes at the preparatory stage and complaintes submitted after the election. The former disputes are decided upon by the electoral board for the constituency. The board decision can be referred to the National Electoral Board as a final instance. Complaints submitted after the elections concerning some irregularities regarding a candidate or a list of a political party are decided upon by the Parliament when it convenes after the election. Complaints concerning offenses which are considered criminal under the act handled by the judiciary.
Source: Björn Fridfinnsson, Ministry of Justice and Ecclesiastical Affairs, bjorn.fridfinnsson(a)dkm.stjr.is
Last updated: 2006-11-21 19:29:17 UTC
LF08 If the agency(ies) which settles formal disputes is/are specially appointed/elected; by whom?
h. Not applicable
Source: Björn Fridfinnsson, Ministry of Justice and Ecclesiastical Affairs, bjorn.fridfinnsson(a)dkm.stjr.is
Last updated: Thu, 11 Jul 2002 12:36:45 GMT
LF09 Who has the right to submit cases to the person or agency(ies)which settles formal disputes?
a. Candidates
b. Parties
c. Voters
Source: Björn Fridfinnsson, Ministry of Justice and Ecclesiastical Affairs, bjorn.fridfinnsson(a)dkm.stjr.is
Last updated: Thu, 11 Jul 2002 12:37:13 GMT
LF10 What body(ies) is the final appellate authority for formal electoral disputes?
c. Superior Court
Comments: This applies to national elections.
Source: Björn Fridfinnsson, Ministry of Justice and Ecclesiastical Affairs, bjorn.fridfinnsson(a)dkm.stjr.is
Last updated: Thu, 11 Jul 2002 12:37:48 GMT
Media and Elections
ME01 Please provide information about the person completing the questionnaire.
a. Name and Title: Hjalti Zophoniasson
b. Job Title: Director of Civil Affairs
c. Organisation: Ministry of Justice and Ecclesiastical Affairs
d. Contact Address: Skuggsund, IS-150 Reykjavik
e. Telephone: 00354 545 900 00
f. Facsimile: 00354 552 7340
g. Email: hjali.zophoniasson@dkm.stjr.is
Last updated: 2006-12-11 10:57:10 UTC
ME11 What laws, if any, guarantee freedom of access to public information for representatives of the media?
Last updated: 2006-12-11 10:49:18 UTC
ME13 What are the laws, if any, which govern the operations of the public broadcaster?
Specify the date of the latest version (including latest amendments)
Last updated: 2006-12-11 10:49:18 UTC
ME18 What are the laws, if any, that provide for the safeguards for editorial autonomy in relation to the public broadcaster(s)?
Last updated: 2006-12-11 10:49:18 UTC
ME19 What are the laws, if any, which govern the granting of broadcasting licenses/frequencies to private broadcasters?
Last updated: 2006-12-11 10:49:18 UTC
ME22 What are the legal conditions, if any, under which the activities of a media outlet may be suspended?
Last updated: 2006-12-11 10:49:18 UTC
ME37 What are the criteria for allocating free broadcast time and/or free printed advertisement space to political parties?
a. Equal regardless of size of party and previous performance
Source: Hjalti Zophoniasson, Director of Civil Affairs, Ministry of Justice and Ecclesiastical Affairs
Last updated: 2006-12-11 10:57:10 UTC
ME38 What, if any, is the maximum amount that a political party is permitted to spend on paid advertising during a campaign period?
b. The law does not specify any limits on paid advertising X
Comments: The law does not specify any limits on paid advertising
Source: Hjalti Zophoniasson, Director of Civil Affairs, Ministry of Justice and Ecclesiastical Affairs
Last updated: 2006-12-11 10:58:44 UTC
ME55 What, if any, is the maximum amount that a presidential candidate is permitted to spend on paid advertising?
Last updated: 2006-12-11 10:49:18 UTC
ME56 What are the laws, if any, which govern the disclosure of campaign advertising expenditures by political parties and candidates?
Last updated: 2006-12-11 10:49:18 UTC
ME57 What, if any, is the maximum amount that a media outlet can charge parties/candidates for advertising during the campaign?
Last updated: 2006-12-11 10:49:18 UTC
ME58 How does this maximum amount (identified in question C.15.1) affect the political participation of smaller or newly formed parties?
Last updated: 2006-12-11 10:49:18 UTC
ME59 Are televised debates between candidates or party representatives normally conducted?
a. Yes, in presidential elections
b. Yes, in legislative elections
Source: Democratic principles underlying in the Broadcasting Act no 53, 2000. Hjalti Zophoniasson, Director of Civil Affairs, Ministry of Justice and Ecclesiastical Affairs
Last updated: 2006-12-11 10:58:44 UTC
ME60 What legal requirements, if any, regulate the participation of candidates or party representatives in media debates?
Last updated: 2006-12-11 10:49:18 UTC
Parties and Candidates
PC01 What are the registration requirements for political parties running for national elections (Chamber 1)?
a. Signature requirement (specify requirement)
Comments: The political parties are only required to register when running for first time in parliamentary elections. The party has to register its name and present a list of at least three hundred voters declaring their support for the party.
Source: Björn Fridfinnsson, Ministry of Justice and Ecclesiastical Affairs, bjorn.fridfinnsson(a)dkm.stjr.is
Last updated: Thu, 11 Jul 2002 13:11:32 GMT
PC02 What are the registration requirements for political parties running for national elections (Chamber 2)?
g. Not applicable
Comments: The national legislature only consists of one chamber.
Source: Björn Fridfinnsson, Ministry of Justice and Ecclesiastical Affairs, bjorn.fridfinnsson(a)dkm.stjr.is
Last updated: Thu, 11 Jul 2002 13:12:04 GMT
PC03 What are the legal qualifications to become a candidate at legislative elections (Chamber 1)?
a. Age
b. Citizenship
d. Residence
Source: Björn Fridfinnsson, Ministry of Justice and Ecclesiastical Affairs, bjorn.fridfinnsson(a)dkm.stjr.is
Last updated: Thu, 11 Jul 2002 13:12:35 GMT
PC04 What are the legal qualifications to become a candidate at legislative elections (Chamber 2)?
k. Not applicable
Comments: The national legislature only consists of one chamber.
Source: Björn Fridfinnsson, Ministry of Justice and Ecclesiastical Affairs, bjorn.fridfinnsson(a)dkm.stjr.is
Last updated: Thu, 11 Jul 2002 13:13:07 GMT
PC05 What are the legal qualifications for becoming a candidate at presidential elections?
a. Age
b. Citizenship
Comments: A presidential candidate must be 35 years of age and must have the right to vote at parliamentary elections.
Source: Björn Fridfinnsson, Ministry of Justice and Ecclesiastical Affairs, bjorn.fridfinnsson(a)dkm.stjr.is
Last updated: Thu, 11 Jul 2002 13:13:39 GMT
PC06 What can disqualify a candidate at legislative elections?
c. Criminal record
g. Holding of government office
Comments: c) A prison sentence longer than 4 months. g) Supreme Court Justices and the Parliament "ombudsmand" can not stand as candidates.
Source: Björn Fridfinnsson, Ministry of Justice and Ecclesiastical Affairs, bjorn.fridfinnsson(a)dkm.stjr.is
Last updated: Thu, 11 Jul 2002 13:14:17 GMT
PC07 What can disqualify a candidate at presidential elections?
c. Criminal record
g. Holding of government office
Comments: The candidate must be 35 years of age and fulfill the same qualifications as candidates in parliamentary elections.
Source: Björn Fridfinnsson, Ministry of Justice and Ecclesiastical Affairs, bjorn.fridfinnsson(a)dkm.stjr.is
Last updated: Thu, 11 Jul 2002 13:14:50 GMT
PC08 Can independent candidates compete in presidential or legislative elections?
b. In presidential elections
Comments: An individual can not stand for election for Parliament unless he forms a political party and presents a complete list of candidates in at least one constituency.
Source: Björn Fridfinnsson, Ministry of Justice and Ecclesiastical Affairs, bjorn.fridfinnsson(a)dkm.stjr.is
Last updated: Thu, 11 Jul 2002 13:15:23 GMT
PC09 If independent candidates can compete in legislative elections (Chamber 1), what are the registration requirements?
e. Not applicable
Comments: An individual can not stand for election for Parliament unless he forms a political party and presents a complete list of candidates in at least one constituency.
Source: Björn Fridfinnsson, Ministry of Justice and Ecclesiastical Affairs, bjorn.fridfinnsson(a)dkm.stjr.is
Last updated: Thu, 11 Jul 2002 13:15:57 GMT
PC10 If independent candidates can compete in legislative elections (Chamber 2), what are the registration requirements?
e. Not applicable
Comments: The national legislature only consists of one chamber.
Source: Bjorn Friofinnsson, Ministry of Justice and Ecclesiastical Affairs, bjorn.friofinnsson(a)dkm.stjr.is
Last updated: Thu, 04 Jul 2002 12:13:21 GMT
PC11 If independent candidates can compete in presidential elections, what are the registration requirements?
a. Signature requirement (specify)
Comments: Signature requirement: Minimum 1500, maximum 3000 voters.
Source: Bjorn Friofinnsson, Ministry of Justice and Ecclesiastical Affairs, bjorn.friofinnsson(a)dkm.stjr.is
Last updated: Thu, 04 Jul 2002 12:14:14 GMT
PC12 Do political parties receive direct/indirect public funding?
b. Direct
c. Indirect
Comments: The amount of direct public funding is decided in the finance law. Only political parties having representation in Parliament receive direct funding.
Source: Björn Fridfinnsson, Ministry of Justice and Ecclesiastical Affairs, bjorn.fridfinnsson(a)dkm.stjr.is
Last updated: Thu, 11 Jul 2002 13:29:04 GMT
PC13 If political parties receive direct/indirect public funding, when do they receive this?
c. As related to the election period and between elections
Comments: The amount of direct public funding is decided in the finance law. Only political parties having representation in Parliament receive direct funding.
Source: Björn Fridfinnsson, Ministry of Justice and Ecclesiastical Affairs, bjorn.fridfinnsson(a)dkm.stjr.is
Last updated: Thu, 11 Jul 2002 13:29:32 GMT
PC14 If political parties receive indirect public funding, identify the type of funding:
b. Tax credits
Comments: Contributors to parties from private sources are tax deductible within certain limits.
Source: Björn Fridfinnsson, Ministry of Justice and Ecclesiastical Affairs, bjorn.fridfinnsson(a)dkm.stjr.is
Last updated: Thu, 11 Jul 2002 13:30:02 GMT
PC15 What is the basis of the public funding?
c. Based on current legislative representation
Source: Björn Fridfinnsson, Ministry of Justice and Ecclesiastical Affairs, bjorn.fridfinnsson(a)dkm.stjr.is
Last updated: Thu, 11 Jul 2002 13:30:39 GMT
PC16 If political parties receive public funding, what is the specified purpose?
c. Unspecified
Source: Björn Fridfinnsson, Ministry of Justice and Ecclesiastical Affairs, bjorn.fridfinnsson(a)dkm.stjr.is
Last updated: Thu, 11 Jul 2002 13:31:12 GMT
PC17 Are political parties entitled to private funding?
a. Yes
Source: Björn Fridfinnsson, Ministry of Justice and Ecclesiastical Affairs, bjorn.fridfinnsson(a)dkm.stjr.is
Last updated: Thu, 11 Jul 2002 13:31:41 GMT
PC18 If political parties are entitled to private funding, for what period?
d. Not Applicable
Source: Björn Fridfinnsson, Ministry of Justice and Ecclesiastical Affairs, bjorn.fridfinnsson(a)dkm.stjr.is
Last updated: Thu, 11 Jul 2002 13:32:22 GMT
PC19 Which of the following party financing provisions are applicable?
c. Prohibition on party funding from foreign sources
Source: Björn Fridfinnsson, Ministry of Justice and Ecclesiastical Affairs, bjorn.fridfinnsson(a)dkm.stjr.is
Last updated: Thu, 11 Jul 2002 13:32:51 GMT
PC20 Which of the following candidate financing provisions are applicable?
c. Prohibition on candidate funding from foreign sources
Source: Björn Fridfinnsson, Ministry of Justice and Ecclesiastical Affairs, bjorn.fridfinnsson(a)dkm.stjr.is
Last updated: Thu, 11 Jul 2002 13:33:35 GMT
PC21 Who is responsible for administering and enforcing party income/funding regulations at national level?
c. Government department
Comments: Regarding foreign financing.
Source: Björn Fridfinnsson, Ministry of Justice and Ecclesiastical Affairs, bjorn.fridfinnsson(a)dkm.stjr.is
Last updated: Thu, 11 Jul 2002 13:34:22 GMT
Vote Counting
VC01 What are the characteristics of ballots used at national legislative elections (Chamber 1)?
a. Single ballot (all registered parties listed)
e. Ability to vote for candidates within parties (personal vote)
l. No photos or logos, only party and/or candidate names
Comments: The ballot for each constituency is a single ballot where all parties taking part in the election by putting forward a list of candidates in the constituency have their lists printed arranged in alphabetical order according to the identification letter alotted to the party for national level. The voter can rearrange the order of the candidates on the paty list he votes for.
Source: Björn Fridfinnsson, Ministry of Justice and Ecclesiastical Affairs, bjorn.fridfinnsson(a)dkm.stjr.is
Last updated: Thu, 11 Jul 2002 13:37:00 GMT
VC02 What are the characteristics of ballots used at national legislative elections (Chamber 2)?
s. Not applicable
Last updated: Tue, 09 Apr 2002 18:53:25 GMT
VC03 What are the characteristics of ballots used at presidential elections?
a. Single ballot (all registered parties/candidates listed)
f. Same ballot papers used nation-wide
l. No photos or logos, only party and/or candidate names
Last updated: Tue, 09 Apr 2002 18:53:58 GMT
VC04 Following the close of the voting, where are the votes first sorted and counted?
c. At special counting centres
Comments: There is only one counting center for each constituency.
Source: Björn Fridfinnsson, Ministry of Justice and Ecclesiastical Affairs, bjorn.fridfinnsson(a)dkm.stjr.is
Last updated: Thu, 11 Jul 2002 13:38:14 GMT
VC05 What procedures are used in the initial count?
a. Separate ballots for different elections
c. Tally of voters who voted
d. Number of ballots in box reconciled against number of voters
i. Tallying by party representative and/or observers as votes are being called out
l. Counted by hand
m. Sorted by party list
o. Data fed into computer for calculation
q. Copies of results are provided to observers
s. Copies of results are provided to party agents
Last updated: Thu, 11 Jul 2002 13:40:21 GMT
VC06 Following the sorting and counting, to where are the results first transmitted for consolidation?
e. National level
Comments: The results from each constituency is transmitted to the National Election Board for consolidation.
Source: Björn Fridfinnsson, Ministry of Justice and Ecclesiastical Affairs, bjorn.fridfinnsson(a)dkm.stjr.is
Last updated: Thu, 11 Jul 2002 13:40:52 GMT
VC07 At what levels are seats allocated?
b. District level
d. National level
Comments: The National Election Board allocates parliamentary seats.
Source: Björn Fridfinnsson, Ministry of Justice and Ecclesiastical Affairs, bjorn.fridfinnsson(a)dkm.stjr.is
Last updated: Thu, 11 Jul 2002 13:41:29 GMT
VC08 How are the initial/preliminary polling results transmitted and communicated to the different levels?
b. By telephone
e. Radio
Source: Björn Fridfinnsson, Ministry of Justice and Ecclesiastical Affairs, bjorn.fridfinnsson(a)dkm.stjr.is
Last updated: Thu, 11 Jul 2002 13:41:57 GMT
VC09 If the polling results are physically transported, what is transported?
b. Unused and spoiled ballots
d. Voter rolls
g. Ballot boxes
Comments: The ballot boxes together with unused and spoiled ballots and voter rolls are transported from the polling station to the central counting station where the election board for the constituency directs the ballot counting.
Source: Björn Fridfinnsson, Ministry of Justice and Ecclesiastical Affairs, bjorn.fridfinnsson(a)dkm.stjr.is
Last updated: Thu, 11 Jul 2002 13:42:38 GMT
VC10 If the polling results are physically transported, what security measures are used?
h. Accompanied by police or other security personnel
Source: Björn Fridfinnsson, Ministry of Justice and Ecclesiastical Affairs, bjorn.fridfinnsson(a)dkm.stjr.is
Last updated: Thu, 11 Jul 2002 13:43:36 GMT
VC11 Under what conditions are ballots recounted?
d. By request
Comments: The Election Board takes decision on recounting.
Source: Björn Fridfinnsson, Ministry of Justice and Ecclesiastical Affairs, bjorn.fridfinnsson(a)dkm.stjr.is
Last updated: Thu, 11 Jul 2002 13:44:08 GMT
VC12 If automatically recounted, what is the trigger?
a. Closeness of results
Source: Björn Fridfinnsson, Ministry of Justice and Ecclesiastical Affairs, bjorn.fridfinnsson(a)dkm.stjr.is
Last updated: Thu, 11 Jul 2002 13:44:41 GMT
VC13 If ballots are recounted by request, who can make the request?
a. Political parties
b. An individual candidate
Source: Björn Fridfinnsson, Ministry of Justice and Ecclesiastical Affairs, bjorn.fridfinnsson(a)dkm.stjr.is
Last updated: Thu, 11 Jul 2002 13:45:09 GMT
VC14 If recounted, who conducts the recount?
b. Regional Election Management body
Comments: The recounting is conducted by the election board for the constituency, the same body which made the original counting.
Source: Björn Fridfinnsson, Ministry of Justice and Ecclesiastical Affairs, bjorn.fridfinnsson(a)dkm.stjr.is
Last updated: Thu, 11 Jul 2002 13:45:43 GMT
VC15 Are preliminary results announced?
a. Yes
Source: Björn Fridfinnsson, Ministry of Justice and Ecclesiastical Affairs, bjorn.fridfinnsson(a)dkm.stjr.is
Last updated: Thu, 11 Jul 2002 13:46:15 GMT
VC16 If preliminary results are announced, how long after the close of polls is this done?
a. hours: X
Comments: The results for each constituency are announced as soon as the counting is over, usually within six to ten hours.
Source: Björn Fridfinnsson, Ministry of Justice and Ecclesiastical Affairs, bjorn.fridfinnsson(a)dkm.stjr.is
Last updated: Thu, 11 Jul 2002 13:46:44 GMT
VC17 Is there a legal requirement for the declaration of the officially certified results?
a. Yes
Source: Björn Fridfinnsson, Ministry of Justice and Ecclesiastical Affairs, bjorn.fridfinnsson(a)dkm.stjr.is
Last updated: Thu, 11 Jul 2002 13:47:12 GMT
VC18 How long after the close of polls is the certified results publicly announced? (if there is no legal requirement enter the average time)
b. days:
Comments: When all reports have officially been received at the National Election Board (in national elections).
Source: Björn Fridfinnsson, Ministry of Justice and Ecclesiastical Affairs, bjorn.fridfinnsson(a)dkm.stjr.is
Last updated: Thu, 11 Jul 2002 13:47:41 GMT
Voter Education
VE01 Who conducts voter education and information campaigns at the national elections (informing where, when and how to register and vote)?
d. National Government
f. Local Governments
h. Political parties/ candidates
Comments: The date for parliamentary elections is announced by the Ministry of Justice, place of polling stations are announced by the local authority in each community. Political parties and candidates conduct information campaignes.
Source: Björn Fridfinnsson, Ministry of Justice and Ecclesiastical Affairs, bjorn.fridfinnsson(a)dkm.stjr.is
Last updated: Thu, 11 Jul 2002 13:06:17 GMT
VE02 At the national level, how often are voter education programs conducted?
b. Election time only
Last updated: Tue, 09 Apr 2002 18:05:59 GMT
VE03 Is there a national civic education campaign (rights and responsibilities of citizens)?
a. No
Comments: There are no direct national civic education campaigns carried out where education on rights and responsibilities of the citizens is the only subject, but before each election the political parties make their programs known to the public and urge people to vote by advertising in the media, holding public meetings, mailing brochures etc.
Source: Björn Fridfinnsson, Ministry of Justice and Ecclesiastical Affairs, bjorn.fridfinnsson(a)dkm.stjr.is
Last updated: Thu, 11 Jul 2002 13:07:24 GMT
VE04 What types of voter education activities were carried out at the most recent national elections?
b. Media advertisement
e. Public meetings
f. Mail-outs
Last updated: Tue, 09 Apr 2002 18:06:57 GMT
Voting Operations
VO01 Approximately what percentage (on the basis of cost) of election day supplies and equipment are obtained or produced within the country?
a. 91-100%
Comments: 100% (Bjorn Friofinnsson, Ministry of Justice and Ecclesiastical Affairs)
Last updated: Tue, 09 Apr 2002 18:34:36 GMT
VO02 Is there a code of conduct for election officials?
b. No
Comments: There is an unwritten rule of impartiality.
Source: Björn Fridfinnsson, Ministry of Justice and Ecclesiastical Affairs, bjorn.fridfinnsson(a)dkm.stjr.is
Last updated: Thu, 11 Jul 2002 13:17:35 GMT
VO03 Where can electors vote?
a. At a specified polling station in the locality where they are registered at national elections
Source: Björn Fridfinnsson, Ministry of Justice and Ecclesiastical Affairs, bjorn.fridfinnsson(a)dkm.stjr.is
Last updated: Thu, 11 Jul 2002 13:18:04 GMT
VO04 Who can vote from outside the country?
b. Citizens residing outside the country
c. Citizens outside the country (including those on vacation)
Source: Björn Fridfinnsson, Ministry of Justice and Ecclesiastical Affairs, bjorn.fridfinnsson(a)dkm.stjr.is
Last updated: Thu, 11 Jul 2002 13:18:31 GMT
VO05 If voting outside the country is permitted, at what places?
a. Embassies
b. Consulates
Source: Björn Fridfinnsson, Ministry of Justice and Ecclesiastical Affairs, bjorn.fridfinnsson(a)dkm.stjr.is
Last updated: Thu, 11 Jul 2002 13:18:58 GMT
VO06 Can people vote in advance of the designated national election day(s)?
b. Yes
Source: Björn Fridfinnsson, Ministry of Justice and Ecclesiastical Affairs, bjorn.fridfinnsson(a)dkm.stjr.is
Last updated: Thu, 11 Jul 2002 13:19:26 GMT
VO07 If electors can vote in advance of the designated national election day(s), how may they do so?
a. At special advance polling centers
Source: Björn Fridfinnsson, Ministry of Justice and Ecclesiastical Affairs, bjorn.fridfinnsson(a)dkm.stjr.is
Last updated: Thu, 11 Jul 2002 13:20:14 GMT
VO08 If electors can vote in advance of the designated national election day(s), specify who:
a. Everyone
Comments: Everyone expecting to be absent on election day.
Source: Björn Fridfinnsson, Ministry of Justice and Ecclesiastical Affairs, bjorn.fridfinnsson(a)dkm.stjr.is
Last updated: Thu, 11 Jul 2002 13:20:45 GMT
VO09 Is there a maximum allowable voter capacity of a polling station for the national elections?
b. No
Last updated: Tue, 09 Apr 2002 18:39:11 GMT
VO10 Is there a maximum allowable voter capacity of a polling station for the national elections?
b. No Na
Last updated: Mon, 13 May 2002 08:45:50 GMT
VO11 How do electors cast their votes?
a. By manually marking the ballot
Comments: If a polling station is defined as an unit where the voter casts his ballot then the voting desk is manned by a board of three persons at one polling station there can be many voting desks and in larger voting districts within the community there is no legally fixed number of voting desks within a polling station and it is up to each community to arrange the stations where voting can take place. The smallest polling station have only one voting desk so the number of staff is approximately four persons.
Source: Björn Fridfinnsson, Ministry of Justice and Ecclesiastical Affairs, bjorn.fridfinnsson(a)dkm.stjr.is
Last updated: Thu, 11 Jul 2002 13:26:24 GMT
VO12 How many staff are assigned to each polling station?
Comments: There are no rules about this. The number may be variable from 5-50. (Bjorn Friofinnsson, Ministry of Justice and Ecclesiastical Affairs)
Last updated: Tue, 09 Apr 2002 18:43:11 GMT
VO13 Approximately how many hours of training were provided to the presiding polling officer for the most recent national elections?
Comments: There are no special courses for this. Experienced officers introduce new people to the task at each locality. (Bjorn Friofinnsson, Ministry of Justice and Ecclesiastical Affairs)
Last updated: Tue, 09 Apr 2002 18:50:24 GMT
VO14 Approximately how many hours of training were provided to the other polling officials for the most recent national elections?
Comments: There are no special courses for this. Experienced officers introduce new people to the task at each locality. (Bjorn Friofinnsson, Ministry of Justice and Ecclesiastical Affairs)
Last updated: Tue, 09 Apr 2002 18:51:12 GMT
Voter Registration
VR01 What is the legal voting age in the national elections?
c. 18
Source: Björn Fridfinnsson, Ministry of Justice and Ecclesiastical Affairs, bjorn.fridfinnsson(a)dkm.stjr.is
Last updated: Thu, 11 Jul 2002 12:58:37 GMT
VR02 Beyond age, what other qualifications exist for registering to vote and voting in the national elections?
a. Citizenship
Source: Björn Fridfinnsson, Ministry of Justice and Ecclesiastical Affairs, bjorn.fridfinnsson(a)dkm.stjr.is
Last updated: Thu, 11 Jul 2002 12:59:38 GMT
VR03 What restrictions on registering to vote and voting exist in the country?
i. Not applicable
Source: Björn Fridfinnsson, Ministry of Justice and Ecclesiastical Affairs, bjorn.fridfinnsson(a)dkm.stjr.is
Last updated: Thu, 11 Jul 2002 13:00:07 GMT
VR04 Which is the authority responsible for the registration of voters for national elections?
a. Central Government Department (specify)
Comments: The National Registry (Department of the Statistical Bureau).
Source: Björn Fridfinnsson, Ministry of Justice and Ecclesiastical Affairs, bjorn.fridfinnsson(a)dkm.stjr.is
Last updated: Thu, 11 Jul 2002 13:00:43 GMT
VR05 What is the registration method for national elections?
a. National citizens register
Source: Björn Fridfinnsson, Ministry of Justice and Ecclesiastical Affairs, bjorn.fridfinnsson(a)dkm.stjr.is
Last updated: Thu, 11 Jul 2002 13:01:12 GMT
VR06 How frequently is the voters register updated?
c. Periodically (or before each election)
Source: Björn Fridfinnsson, Ministry of Justice and Ecclesiastical Affairs, bjorn.fridfinnsson(a)dkm.stjr.is
Last updated: Thu, 11 Jul 2002 13:01:43 GMT
VR07 What methods are used to compile and update the voters register?
a. Links to national population records
Last updated: Tue, 09 Apr 2002 17:51:00 GMT
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