The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is developing travel guidelines for LGBTQ+ individuals, with a focus on safety.
Foreign Minister Þorgerður Katrín Gunnarsdóttir stresses the importance of caution in today’s changing world. The chairman of the ’78 Association has also highlighted the need for awareness when travelling to the United States, particularly.
Concerns Over Travel Safety
Several European countries—including Denmark, the United Kingdom, and Finland—have already issued travel advisories for trans people visiting the U.S. due to shifting government policies.
In the past, Iceland has rarely issued such warnings, as is typical with Nordic nations, but officials are now responding to concerns from the LGBTQ+ community.
“We have received inquiries from queer individuals who feel uncertain and anxious about travelling,” said Þorgerður, speaking to Iceland’s national broadcaster, RÚV. Currently, the Ministry is collaborating with the Samtökin ’78 Association to create a guide specifically addressing these concerns.
During the interview, Þorgerður warned that setbacks in gay and trans rights must be taken seriously.
“We must ensure our people, our Icelanders, the security they are entitled to. We need to do everything we can to eliminate uncertainty and insecurity.”
“We can act”
Bjarndís Helga Tómasdóttir, chairwoman of the Samtökin ’78 Association, told the news agency, “It’s important people understand what travelling to the U.S. is like now. The situation is unsafe.”
The association, which recently hosted the National LGBTQ+ Congress, has long been concerned about a backlash against LGBTQ+ rights. “Now that the risks are clear, we can act,” says Bjarndís.
