Liberals (Hverland)
Liberals Frjálshyggjumenn | |
|---|---|
 | |
| Leader | Björn Sigurðsson |
| Founded | 1975 |
| Ideology | Social liberalism |
| Political position | Centre-left |
| Fjallting seats | 16 / 101 |
| Municipality seats | 55 / 475 |
| Sámedagi seats | 3 / 31 |
| Website | |
| liberalts.hv | |
The Liberals (Hverlandic: Frjálshyggjumenn) is a political party that embodies classical liberal values and stands for social freedoms, economic liberalization, and the protection of individual rights. Founded in 1975 and led by Björn Sigurðsson, the Liberals have 16 of the 101 seats in the Fjallting and 55 out of 475 seats in the local municipalities.
History
The Liberals were established in 1975, born out of the desire to promote a society rooted in individual freedom and limited government intervention. Since its foundation, the party has consistently advocated for the principles of classical liberalism, supporting policies that promote free markets, minimal state intervention, and the protection of civil liberties.
Leaders
- Svava Óskarsdóttir: 2011-2022
- Björn Sigurðsson: 2022-
Ideology
The Liberals adhere to the principles of classical liberalism, characterized by a commitment to individual freedom, limited government, free markets, and equal rights. This ideological foundation guides the party's positions on various policy matters, including economic policy, social issues, and internet governance.
Policy positions
The key policy positions of the Liberals include:
- Economic liberalization: The Liberals advocate for free markets, reduced government intervention in the economy, and the protection of property rights. They support policies that encourage entrepreneurship, innovation, and competition.
- Social liberties: The party supports socially liberal policies, including those promoting LGBT+ equality. They believe that all individuals should have the freedom to express their identities without fear of discrimination or repression.
- Internet freedom: The Liberals are staunch opponents of internet censorship and advocate for policies that protect net neutrality and the freedom of expression online. They believe that the internet should be a space for free speech and the exchange of ideas, not a tool for government control or censorship.
- Civil liberties: The Liberals stand for the protection of civil liberties, supporting policies that safeguard individual rights and freedoms. They view these liberties as the cornerstone of a democratic society and advocate for their protection against unwarranted governmental intervention.
Voter base
The voter base of the Liberals is diverse, encompassing individuals who value personal freedoms, economic liberalization, and the protection of individual rights. The party particularly appeals to those who oppose government overreach and censorship, favor free markets, and support social progressivism. As such, it draws support from both economic conservatives who favor market freedom, and social progressives who support issues like LGBT+ rights.
Electoral results
| Election | Votes | % | Seats | ± | Government |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2018 | 17,381 | 20.23 | 20 / 101
|
 3
|
Coalition |
| 2022 | 13,412 | 15.18 | 16 / 101
|
 4
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Opposition |