In Iceland, the issue of whale hunting has sparked a vibrant debate as several conservation and animal protection groups are calling on the president to intervene urgently. In the context of the upcoming elections, they express their concerns regarding the government’s plans to grant a permit to the last whaler in Europe, allowing the hunting of many fin whales. This move has caused discord, especially since the majority of Icelanders oppose this practice.
A coalition of conservation and animal advocacy groups is urging the president of Iceland to intervene to prevent the Prime Minister from issuing a whale hunting permit before the elections at the end of the month. This issue has raised serious international concerns, particularly when the country had already granted a one-year license to the company Hvalur for the hunting of over 100 common minke whales this season. Kristján Loftsson, an octogenarian and the last minke whaler in Europe, runs this business. International groups have sent a letter to Halla Tómasdóttir expressing their concerns. Prime Minister Bjarni Benediktsson announced that Hvalur’s request would be reviewed. This controversial subject, linked to Iceland’s environmental reputation, is exacerbated by the recent dissolution of the governing coalition.
current context of whale hunting in Iceland
The granting of whale hunting permits in Iceland raises concerns among conservation and animal protection groups. As the government considers granting a permit to Hvalur hf, the only remaining whaling company, a call has been made to the Icelandic president to suspend this decision. This debate comes at a crucial time before the elections in Iceland, further intensifying the polarization around this delicate issue.
international and local reactions
Many international organizations such as OceanCare and Whale and Dolphin Conservation have expressed their disapproval of this situation. Their opposition is based on the fact that the majority of Icelanders do not support this practice. Furthermore, these groups recall Iceland’s recent decisions to abstain from important votes at the International Whaling Commission, which could indicate a revision of hunting practices at the national level.
future of whale hunting and the role of the president
The role of the Icelandic president is now in the spotlight. He is expected to take a clear position regarding the future of whale hunting in Iceland. Environmental advocates fear that a hasty decision in favor of Hvalur hf could negatively impact Iceland’s environmental image globally. The necessity to wait for the formation of a fully mandated government is emphasized, in order to preserve marine ecosystems and respect the country’s democratic processes.
