In his final weeks as Prime Minister, Bjarni Benediktsson granted a five-year license for commercial whaling, authorizing the killing of up to 209 fin whales annually. This decision reflects the Independence Party’s longstanding support for whaling, influenced by close ties with industry stakeholders. Notably, secret recordings have exposed alleged political deal-making within the party to facilitate these licenses. (Heimildin)
The Brutality of Icelandic Whaling
The hunting of fin whales, a species classified as vulnerable, epitomizes ecological recklessness. These majestic animals play a vital role in maintaining balance in the ocean, cycling nutrients that sustain marine ecosystems and support biodiversity. Yet Iceland’s whaling industry chooses to target them, using explosive harpoons that cause immense suffering.
This decision by Benediktsson is not only ethically indefensible but also economically nonsensical. The worldwide market for whale products has plummeted, and Iceland’s thriving whale-watching industry far outpaces whaling in terms of revenue and public support. Still, this small but vocal whaling lobby continues to hold sway.
We condemn Iceland’s renewed whaling license in the strongest terms. It is a senseless and barbaric practice, one that tarnishes Iceland’s reputation as a leader in sustainability and responsible tourism.
Take Action
With Benediktsson stepping down and the Independence Party’s recent electoral losses, Iceland stands at a crossroads. The incoming coalition government, led by Kristrún Frostadóttir and the Social Democratic Alliance, has previously expressed opposition to whaling—but words are not enough.
It is now their responsibility to turn those words into action. Frostadóttir has the opportunity to honor her stated commitment by banning whaling outright and making Iceland a leader in marine conservation. True leadership means protecting the ocean’s most magnificent creatures, not exploiting them—and the world is watching to see if Iceland will rise to this challenge.
Support Sea Shepherd
This moment demands accountability and bold leadership. Sea Shepherd, alongside other environmental organizations, will continue to stand against Iceland’s whaling practices. We urge supporters around the world to join us in demanding the incoming government deliver on their promises and make whaling a relic of the past.
