Family policies: The case of Iceland

Abstract

Icelandic family policy was left implicit until explicit goals of family policy were enacted by a parliamentary resolution in 1997. The resolution emphasises the need to strengthen the position of the family, regardless of family type. It also states that the welfare of the family is based on equality between men and women in all aspects of life. Work-life balance has gained increased attention in policymaking during the 1990s and led to important changes, for example in family law where the rights of children to care from both parents were strengthened and in laws on paid parental leave that, from 2000, have provided both parents with equal rights to paid parental leave. While support for care, paid parental leave, day care and after-school and leisure service has been increased from the 1990s, the support for provision of children has not increased and family benefits in Iceland are income tested. Compared to other nations in Europe, child poverty is nevertheless among the lowest according to Eurostat (2012). The Icelandic welfare system also provides general measures, benefits and services to the elderly and the disabled; education and health services are mainly publicly financed, and there are also additional measures for groups at risk, such as social assistance and child protection services. Government and other agencies have emphasised the need for evidence-based policies and practices, but little family research has been conducted, the lack of research in the field being evident.