Framework Conditions in Iceland
Inhaltsverzeichnis
Gender Pay Gap in Iceland
The gender pay gap ranges in Iceland stays with around 17.5 per cent (2015) above European average. Despite the high wage gap, Iceland ranks first in the Global Gender Gap Report 2016 and is often mentioned for a high level of equality measures.
Equal Pay Act in Iceland
Already in 1961, the Icelandic Parliament approved the Equal Pay Act to ensure equal remuneration for women and men for equal work or work of equal value. The gender pay gap ranged relatively constantly around 15 to 16 per cent. Especially the economic crisis in 2008 had enormous impacts on the gender pay gap increasing the gap up to 28 per cent.
On October 24, 2016, thousands of women across Iceland walked out of their workplaces at 2.38pm demonstrating against the gender pay gap. The pay discrepancy means that Icelandic women effectively work without pay after this time, according to unions and women’s organizations.[1]
On March 8, 2017, the Icelandic Government annouced to introduce a new law in order to close the wage gap. This law requires companies with more than 25 employees to proove that wages are fair. Therefore, companies shall get certified to analyse and show their wage structures. The central goal of this legislative initiative is to close the wage gap entirely by 2022. The law should enter into effect by 2020. [2]
Equal Pay Standard
In 2012, the Equal Pay Standard has been introduced. This standard provides a voluntary measure for companies to analyse their wage structures. Companies who implement the standard are then certified for their efforts in implementing fair pay.[3]
The new legislative initiative (see above) makes this standard mandatory for companies with more than 25 employees.
Sources
- ↑ Kvennafrí
- ↑ World Economic Forum: Iceland will become the first country to make employers pay men and women equally
- ↑ Equal Pay Management System
New York Times: Equal Pay for Men and Women? Iceland Wants Employers to Prove It
The Icelandic Women’s Rights Association (IWRA): Looking for information about equal pay in iceland
The Standard Equal Pay Management System
Related Links
Gender Equality in Iceland - Stepping Stones