Sex, Ice Cream and Northern Lights: Sexual Health in Iceland – Sexual Health Alliance

But beyond the adventures, the trip focused on what makes Iceland truly unique: its open, progressive approach to sex, sexuality and gender. Along the way, the group met three sexual health professionals, half of all practicing sexologists in the country (that’s right – six in total!).

In this blog we share the key insights and highlights that made this trip unforgettable.

Fun facts about Iceland

Although Iceland looks big on the map, it has less than 400,000 inhabitants (about the same size as New Orleans). Communities range from small towns with only a few dozen inhabitants to Reykjavík, where 64% of the population lives in and around the capital.

Known as the ‘land of fire and ice’, Iceland is also known for its progressive attitude towards sex and sexuality. Blogs, news articles and videos often show how people in Iceland openly approach conversations about sex, sexuality and relationships.

In such a small country, dating culture looks a little different. Instead of Tinder, this is the most popular app Defeateddesigned with Icelandic culture in mind. And because ‘everyone knows everyone’, Icelandic students has even created an app that allows daters to check if they share family genealogy before we meet.

Sexual health in Iceland: progressive laws and policies

Gender equality

Iceland consistently ranks among the most gender-equal countries in the world. Women participate in the workforce at one of the highest rates worldwide and now make up the majority of university graduates. Gender gaps persist, but Iceland continues to lead the way with strong policies and advocacy.

When it comes to gender equality, Iceland consistently ranks among the top most egalitarian countries in the world. Women participate in the workforce at one of the highest rates worldwide and now make up the majority of university graduates. Gender gaps persist, but Iceland continues to lead the way with strong policies and advocacy.

LGBTQ+ rights

Iceland is also one of the most LGBTQ+ friendly countries in the world:

Iceland has made efforts to provide various resources for LGBTQIA+ people. One study showed high awareness and satisfaction with these resources.