Iceland reviews defense policy and confronts overtourism to protect identity and sovereignty
Iceland reviews defense policy and confronts overtourism to protect identity and sovereignty
In 2025, Iceland is facing two major national challenges: redefining its defense strategy and responding to overtourism that threatens local life and sustainability.
Following growing military tension in the North Atlanticโespecially around the GIUK (GreenlandโIcelandโUK) Gapโthe Icelandic government under Prime Minister Kristrรบn Frostadรณttir has begun reassessing its national security posture. Despite having no standing army, Iceland plays a critical role in NATO, notably through the Keflavรญk air base. A public referendum on starting EU accession talks is being considered before 2027, signaling a possible shift in foreign policy.
Meanwhile, tourism continues to surge, with over 2.3 million visitors in 2024โnearly seven times the country's population. The boom has led to housing shortages, rising costs of living (especially in Reykjavรญk), and environmental stress.
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Unchecked tourism undermines local housing, strains infrastructure, and harms the environment. Taxes and restrictions are a start, but a long-term national tourism strategy is urgently needed to preserve Icelandโs identity and quality of life.์ ํฌํํ์๊ฒ ์ด์?๋ฒ์ญํ๊ธฐ