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Directorate of Equality Frontpage
Directorate of Equality Frontpage

Directorate of Equality

Municipalities

Municipalities have a wide range of responsibilities towards their residents when it comes to equality issues.

Because of their close connection to the public and their threefold role as public authorities, employers, and service providers, they are in a strong position to fulfil these obligations.

According to the Act on the Administration of Gender Equality, municipal councils must, no later than one year after local elections, present and approve a gender equality plan for the following four years.

The Directorate of Equality monitors the implementation of the law and provides support to the municipalities.

Educational and published material

JÁTAK - diversity among candidates

Játak encourages all candidate lists for city, town, and municipal councils to prioritize diversity, safeguard equal rights for people of all genders, and present slates that genuinely represent the broad spectrum of human experience.

Inclusion and Main­streaming for Municipalities

This course provides an introduction to how municipalities can integrate gender and human rights perspectives into their daily operations. The training covers their legal obligations, the main challenges they may encounter, and the conditions needed to achieve meaningful results.

Idea bank for action plans

An idea bank with examples of goals and actions that municipalities can use in action plans.

Municipal Gender Equality Plan

A guideline for municipalities on how to develop, implement, and follow up on a comprehensive gender equality plan that ensures equal treatment, prevents discrimination, and integrates gender equality perspectives across all municipal operations.

Responsibilities of municipalities

A summary of all legal provisions and obligations that apply to municipalities under the Equality Act.

More Diverse Perspectives in Local Governments in Iceland – Checklist

The aim of this checklist is to support local governments in increasing diversity and deepening understanding of the importance of different perspectives in the formation and work of local governance.

The statistical overview below presents information on gender representation in municipal councils and committees in 2022.