Iceland's Top 5 Population Problems

Lack of Immigration from Under Developed Countries

                                               Net Migration Rates In Greater Reykjavik vs Rest of Iceland

• Iceland's immigration rates have risen over the years, but continues to fall more recently. This is largely due to their recent economic crisis, pushing many to leave the country. The majority of these immigrants come from the neighboring country of Poland, and very few come from countries outside of Europe. Not only does this lead to a lack of foreign relations, but also a lack of a potential foreign work force. 

Size of Work Force

• Although the unemployment rate in Iceland is at a moderate level, their small population size still leaves them with a small work force when compared to other developed countries. Considering the amount of natural resources available, a larger work force in those areas could create an even larger growing economy for the country. Immigration will be a key factor as to whether or Iceland can increase the size of their workforce significantly. 

Marriage Trends

• Over the past decades, marriage rates in Iceland have fallen and births outside of wed-lock have increased, as well as abortion rates. In the year 2000, the amount of out-of-wedlock births was at 64%. These are trends that have led to the low birthrates in Iceland, and the continuation of these trends could lead to undesirably low birth rates in the future, especially when Iceland could use to expand its population. 

Age at First Birth

• Women in Iceland are having children later and later as years go on, a trend which commonly leads to lowering birthrates as well. This is most likely due to the importance placed on obtaining higher education in Iceland, causing women to postpone motherhood until mid-20s to 30s. 

Fishing Industry

• Fishing has been Iceland's most important resource for years, and is now creating many of its current problems. Just recently, Iceland applied to become an official member of the European Union. However, tensions over Iceland's water territories and rate of fishing is making Icelanders and European Union member alike weary of official membership.