Sigmundur Davíð Gunnlaugsson assumed the office of Prime Minister of Iceland in 2013 at the age of 38, becoming the youngest person to hold the position in the history of the republic. His tenure, which lasted until 2016, occurred amidst the country's complex financial recovery following the collapse of its major banking institutions.
Early Career and Education
Born in Reykjavík in 1975, Gunnlaugsson pursued studies in business administration at the University of Iceland. He later attended the University of Oxford as a student and served as a Chevening scholar at the University of Cambridge in 2004. Before entering formal politics, he worked as a journalist for Iceland's state broadcasting service and contributed to the current affairs program Kastljós between 2002 and 2007.
Twenty questions, eight minutes on the clock, and a percentile measured against everyone who has taken it. No sign-up.
Take the IQ test →Ascent to National Leadership
Gunnlaugsson gained public visibility as a spokesperson for the InDefence movement, which challenged foreign creditor demands following the 2008 banking crisis. He was elected chairman of the Progressive Party in January 2009 and won a seat in the Althing later that year. In 2013, he formed a coalition government with the Independence Party, positioning himself at the center of national economic policy.
Financial Disclosures and Resignation
In 2016, his political career faced scrutiny following the release of the Panama Papers. Reports revealed his 50% ownership of Wintris, an offshore company that held claims against failed Icelandic banks. Although he initially defended the transparency of his financial disclosures, public pressure following the revelation led to his resignation as Prime Minister on 5 April 2016. He was succeeded by Sigurður Ingi Jóhannsson.
Parliamentary Tenure and New Affiliation
Following his resignation, Gunnlaugsson continued his legislative career as a member of the Althing. He remained affiliated with the Progressive Party until shortly before the 2017 parliamentary elections, at which point he founded the Centre Party. He has served as a member of parliament across several sessions, including the 2009–2013, 2013–2016, 2016–2017, 2017–2021, and 2021– sessions.
Fast facts
- Born: 1975, Reykjavík
- Prime Minister of Iceland: 2013–2016
- Education: University of Iceland, University of Oxford, University of Cambridge
- Party history: Progressive Party, Centre Party
- Minister of Justice: 2014
- Honours: Knight Grand Cross of the Order of the Falcon
Questions readers ask
What was the significance of the Wintris company?
Wintris was an offshore company owned by Gunnlaugsson and his wife that held financial claims against the estates of failed Icelandic banks, which became a point of controversy in 2016.
Did Gunnlaugsson remain in politics after the 2016 resignation?
Yes, he founded the Centre Party in 2017 and has continued to serve as a member of the Icelandic Parliament.
Achievements
- Prime Minister of Iceland (2013–2016)
- Minister of Justice (Iceland) (2014–2014)
- Member of the 2016-2017 Parliament of Iceland (from 2016)
- Member of the 2013-2016 Parliament of Iceland (2013–2016)
- Knight Grand Cross of the Order of the Falcon
- Educated at University of Oxford and University of Iceland