“The world is certainly not perfect”

President of Iceland Halla Tómasdóttir delivered her first National Day address today on Austurvöllur square, June 17.

“It brings me genuine joy to be with you on this beautiful summer day — and no one is worse off for getting a little wet,” said Tómasdóttir in her speech.

She reflected on the special place that June 17 holds in the hearts of both younger and older generations. “It awakens the child within us. The mind conjures images — a small child with one hand in a trusted palm, and in the other, a balloon or a flag. Each of us holds a personal memory of National Day in our youth.”

Turning to the state of global affairs, she expressed concern. “There is much in today’s world that gives cause for despair. It is disheartening to witness bitter disputes on social media platforms — not least when such conduct comes from some of the world’s most powerful leaders, who should be setting a better example.”

“What’s even more unbearable — heavier than tears — is to see, almost in real time, innocent civilians, including thousands of children, fall victim to war and atrocities. It is a sad reality that in a time of constant connectivity and unrestricted access to information, more and more people are experiencing distrust, isolation, and loneliness. The world is certainly not perfect.”

“Everyone can choose to join that team”

“Awareness of our challenges does not diminish my belief that these turbulent times offer opportunities to rise to the occasion,” Tómasdóttir said. “I’m convinced of this because, in my work, I have the privilege of meeting countless people who step forward in the name of compassion. These are selfless individuals, often quiet, who do good every day.”

“As I’ve said before, I like to call them the knights of kindness — and I repeat: everyone can choose to be on that team.”

She described children as messengers of the future and a reminder that Iceland is still in its national infancy. “We are just beginning our journey as an independent nation — curious, sometimes overly eager for novelty, but full of vitality. Yet children can also feel afraid and lonely. They need support, love, and care. They are comforted when they feel they belong to something bigger than themselves. In truth, so are we all — no matter our age.”

“The future will always surprise us”

“The future is inherently uncertain. It will bring both fortune and hardship, good news and bad. But what matters most is that we face challenges together — continuing to be a land of creative solutions when it comes to complex issues, social reform, and enriching the human spirit. The future is vast and full of promise. We are only just beginning.

Imagine all that lies ahead — the films we’ve yet to make, the stories yet to be written, the plays yet to be performed, the businesses yet to be founded, the good deeds yet to be done. Imagine that next year, on the 40th anniversary of the historic Höfði summit, where world leaders began direct talks on disarmament, Iceland could once again serve as a venue for peace — often needed, but now essential.”

“The achievements of our small but mighty nation attract attention worldwide”

“I believe in this nation and in all that we’ve accomplished. When our fight for independence began, many saw it as a bold dream. Today, we stand here — a sovereign nation for a full human lifetime — with a record of achievements we can be proud of,” she said.

“Few people live in places where the ground beneath their feet is still being formed. We Icelanders live on a land shaped by nature’s many faces — calm days and raging storms — a land that gives and takes, that demands hard work and perseverance. Every day brings a new view, new colors, and a fresh breeze on our cheeks. We live in an environment that urges us to create with open hearts.”

“The accomplishments of our small but mighty nation are noticed far and wide. On my recent visit to Japan — one of the most advanced countries in the world — it was striking how much our hosts felt they could learn from Iceland, particularly in geothermal energy and gender equality. Iceland leads the way in the global journey toward gender equality, though we know there is still work to do.

It’s equally important to promote equality in other areas — especially regarding boys, and ensuring equality regardless of generation or origin. As for Iceland’s reputation globally, it’s worth remembering that our influence is amplified as part of the Nordic countries. Together, the Nordic nations form roughly the tenth largest economy in the world. United, we can truly make an impact — especially in a world yearning for examples that show prosperity, nature, and well-being can go hand in hand.”

“It takes courage to preserve the child within”

Tómasdóttir concluded her speech by emphasizing the value of childhood — a time of imagination and creativity, “a time when the heart is open.”

“It takes courage and boldness to preserve the child within. That only happens when there is trust. Let’s be trustworthy and live up to that trust. Let’s speak with respect — to and about each other. Children absorb what they see and hear. We can comfort those who lack courage and be the sun for those who can’t see the light.”

She called on the nation to make time for one another, to put down their phones, and to be fully present in shared moments. “Let’s use our words, listen to their rhythm, cherish our beautiful and unique language, and teach it to new Icelanders.”

She added that she herself would lead by example on social media — taking a summer break from Facebook and reducing her time online. She encouraged schools and families to set sensible boundaries around these “thieves of attention.”

“Instead, I intend to have more conversations in the real world — to participate in and promote more dialogue, with the hope that next year we will hold a National Assembly to discuss the future awaiting our children. I will continue to smile, even if some find it too much, to hug those who welcome it, and to strengthen my own courage — and that of others — to face difficult times with humanity and kindness.

Dear compatriots, let us step joyfully into this blessed summer day. Let us remember to nurture the child within us and prioritize children in our society. Let us dare to dream — and to dream together. Our greatest achievements are just around the corner.”