Iceland’s Efforts to Combat Organized Crime Face Challenges

Reykjavik, Iceland - Despite significant strides in combating organized crime, Iceland still faces challenges, particularly in rural areas where understaffing and equipment shortages hinder law enforcement efforts.

Challenges Persist in Rural Areas

According to a recent report, the Metropolitan Police in Reykjavik and the police in the Suðurnes district have been instrumental in tackling organized crime, particularly in cases related to narcotics. However, police capacity for financial analysis and intelligence has not kept pace with the growing complexity of criminal activities.

Iceland’s Unique Location

Iceland’s remote location in the North Atlantic Ocean has limited its exposure to territorial threats, but its membership in the Schengen Area makes it an attractive entry point for criminals seeking access to Europe or North America. To combat this, Icelandic authorities have invested in airport security and implemented measures to comply with Schengen requirements.

Money Laundering Remains a Concern

Despite efforts to combat money laundering, billions of ISK are laundered annually in Iceland. The country’s financial intelligence units have made progress in combating money laundering, but further reforms are needed to address deficiencies in the anti-money laundering framework.

Low Crime Rate and Strong Economy

Iceland’s economic and regulatory environment is considered to be in line with European and Scandinavian standards, with a low crime rate that allows legitimate businesses to operate without significant threats. However, certain sectors may be more vulnerable to infiltration by organized crime for money laundering or human smuggling and trafficking.

Supporting Victims of Human Trafficking

The Icelandic government has made efforts to support victims of human trafficking and drug addiction through collaborations with non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and civil society organizations (CSOs). Funding has been allocated for constructing shelters and developing a central database to accurately reflect the extent of trafficking in Iceland.

Approach to Substance Abuse Prevention

Iceland’s approach to preventing substance abuse has garnered international attention, focusing on improving the social environment at community level by providing access to recreational services. The country has also decriminalized the sale and possession of small quantities of drugs for personal use.

Key Role of Non-State Actors

Non-state actors play a key role in combating organized crime in Iceland, with Icelandic labour and trade unions, along with NGOs, actively contributing to efforts against organized crime. Civil society organizations work closely with the government and enjoy strong support and cooperation.

Resilient Media Landscape

Despite some challenges, including the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and the influence of the fishing industry on the media, Iceland’s media remains diverse and plays a crucial role in holding the government accountable.

Acknowledgments

This report was funded in part by a grant from the United States Department of State. The opinions, findings and conclusions stated herein are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect those of the United States Department of State.