University of Iceland faces compensation threats over lecture venue dispute

Two former professors at the University of Iceland, Hannes Hólmsteinn Gissurarson and Ragnar Árnason, have threatened the university with significant compensation claims and complaints to the Althingi Ombudsman. The dispute arose after the university administration denied permission for Dr. Carl Baudenbacher, an expert in European and international law and former President of the EFTA Court, to hold a lecture in the University’s main ceremonial hall.

The university had initially authorized the use of the hall but later rescinded the decision due to the involvement of the organization Áfram Ísland in the event. Organizers were offered alternative locations within the university, such as the Askja building, but refused to move the lecture. Consequently, the event was held at Sjálfstæðissalurinn near Austurvöll.

In correspondence with the rector’s office, the professors argued that the decision violated the constitution and could constitute defamation. Gissurarson stated that the university might be liable for “not small amounts” of damages. Dr. Baudenbacher also expressed concern regarding the short notice provided for the denial of the venue. The lecture primarily addressed the benefits of the EEA agreement over full EU membership for Iceland.