Minister of Education and Children in Iceland Resigns Following Controversial Admission

Reykjavik, Iceland - Ásthildur Lóa Thórsdóttir, Iceland's Minister of Education and Children, has resigned from her position after admitting to having a child with a 15-year-old boy over three decades ago. This announcement came on March 20, 2025, following a report from Icelandic news agency RUV, which uncovered details of her long-standing relationship with the minor.

Details of the Admission

The 58-year-old minister revealed that the relationship occurred in the late 1980s when she was a 22-year-old advisor within a religious group. According to Thórsdóttir, she became involved with the adolescent and subsequently gave birth to their child a year later. Following her marriage to another individual, she reportedly limited the biological father's access to their son.

The father, who paid child support for 18 years, had repeatedly sought visitation rights through the Icelandic Ministry of Justice but faced rejection in his applications.

"Thirty-six years have passed, and much has changed. I would certainly approach these issues differently now," Thórsdóttir stated in a public comment addressing the situation. She recognized her past actions as a mistake made in her youth but stressed that she hoped her contributions to the Ministry would not be overshadowed by this incident.

Immediate Consequences

Iceland’s Prime Minister, Kristrun Frostadottir, termed the situation "serious" and convened an urgent meeting with Thórsdóttir on March 21, 2025. During this meeting, Thórsdóttir made the decision to submit her resignation. She acknowledged the turmoil that the news could sow within the government, indicating that it would undermine both her position and the important goals established within the Ministry of Education and Children.

Thórsdóttir, who assumed office as Minister on December 21, 2024, has now seen her tenure last only 89 days.

Legal Context

In Iceland, sexual relations with a minor under the age of 18 are illegal if the adult is in a position of authority over the minor, such as that of a teacher or guide. Offenses of this nature can incur penalties of up to 12 years in prison under Icelandic penal law.

The unfolding events have sparked discussions around child protection laws and the responsibilities of public officials. The situation remains sensitive, and the government is expected to face scrutiny regarding its handling of the matter.

The resignation of Ásthildur Lóa Thórsdóttir illustrates the serious implications that personal conduct can have on political roles, especially in sensitive positions related to children and education.