Iceland’s economy is in a severe recession following the collapse of the nation’s three primary banks, and expected to contract nearly 10% this year, with the value of the krona in free fall. The government is refusing to stand down and allow new elections, and has been in recess since Christmas.
Massive protests broke out in Reykjavík today. Protestors gathered in front of the Alþingi, (Icelandic Parliament) around 1:30 this afternoon and have continued protest into the night. Paint and skyr (an icelandic cheese curd similar to yogurt) cover the front of the building, and people are throwing snowballs at the riot police. The chant “Vanhæf Rikisstjorn” or “incompetent government” is heard everywhere, and people have brought pots and pans and musical instruments—anything to make noise. Throughout it all, the atmosphere has remained peaceful, although police have pepper-sprayed and arrested a handful of protestors.
A young man passing on the street expressed his feelings. “People are pissed. This is the first time Icelanders have protested since… forever. We’re not like the French.” Indeed, in a country the size of Iceland, with just more than 300000 residents, the turnout is truly massive.
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