Bridging the generation gap at Tónabíó

A rally organized by the group Sjá in Reykjavík's Tónabíó cinema aimed to bridge the generation gap on the issue of Iceland's potential European Union membership. The event featured speakers from different age groups presenting arguments for voting "yes" in an upcoming referendum.

Halldór Emil Unnarsson, a 15-year-old student and student council president, was the youngest speaker. He emphasized that the vote is about giving the nation an informed choice. Unnarsson stated that no one can currently predict Iceland's exact position within the EU, and therefore, the country should at least explore potential membership terms before making a final decision.

Unnarsson drew a parallel to his own future plans, explaining that before deciding on a course of study, he would want to know the available options. Similarly, he argued, Icelanders should see what EU membership entails before committing to a final decision. He stressed the importance of young people participating in the referendum and trusting the Icelandic people to make a decision once the terms are clear. He also highlighted the need to involve young people in discussions about potential EU membership terms.

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Not to make a decision about our future without allowing us to participate in shaping it.

Margrét Kristmannsdóttir, director of PFAFF and former chair of various business associations, presented three reasons for her intention to vote "yes." She challenged the notion that a majority of Icelandic businesses oppose EU membership, pointing out that the Icelandic business community is largely comprised of small and medium-sized enterprises, not just the large organizations represented by the Confederation of Icelandic Enterprise. Kristmannsdóttir likened large, powerful companies to bullies and smaller ones to students who stay quiet to avoid them, urging attendees not to be intimidated in the voting booth.

Kristmannsdóttir also criticized the current Icelandic system, suggesting it benefits only a select few. She called for a system that works for everyone, not just a portion of the population. She implied that Iceland's current standing in the world requires a new approach rather than continuing with the status quo.

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There is no reason to walk along the walls in the voting booth.