Election observing and study visits for the public referendum 29 August 2026

Landskjörstjórn (The National Electoral Commission) has issued authorizations for election observation during the referendum pursuant to Article 138 of the Election Act. The principal objectives and purposes of election observation include enhancing transparency in the conduct of elections and strengthening the confidence of voters, candidates, and the public in electoral outcomes. Election observation can therefore support the professional administration of elections and contribute to improvements in this field.

The following organizations and institutions have been authorized by Landskjörstjórn to conduct election observation at the referendum on 29 August:

• A delegation from the British organization Democracy Volunteers,

• An expert team from the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR),

• Heimssýn, samtök sjálfstæðissinna í Evrópumálum.

The findings of the election observation missions are expected to be made public, and the observation will be conducted in accordance with international standards in this field.

In addition, a delegation from the Estonian Parliament (Riigikogu) is currently visiting Iceland to familiarize itself with the administration of the referendum.

A number of foreign journalists are also in Iceland to follow the referendum.