Iceland: Healthcare reforms and competition authority funding concerns

The Icelandic Ministry of Health has released a White Paper regarding rehabilitation services, aiming to integrate rehabilitation as a seamless part of the national healthcare system. The vision includes strengthening nationwide service foundations through coordinated assessment, improved data collection, digital infrastructure, and specialized human resources.

Separately, the Icelandic Competition Authority has issued its 2025 annual report, highlighting concerns over funding. The authority reports that while economic activity has grown by 35 to 40 percent over the last decade, its real-term funding has decreased by approximately 20 percent. The agency notes a need for 42 full-time positions to fulfill its legal mandate, compared to its current staffing levels.

Other local developments in Iceland include the historical significance of stone sheep shelters (fjárborgir) found across the country, particularly on the Reykjanes Peninsula, and an upcoming art exhibition by Jónína Björg Helgadóttir at the Húsavík Museum. Additionally, the SA Chess Autumn Tournament is currently underway, though it has seen lower-than-expected participant numbers in recent rounds.