LGBT+ issues and school responsibilities

National Curriculum

Equality is one of six pillars in the 2011 national curriculum. Equality education should occur at all education levels. It involves critically examining accepted societal ideas and institutions to teach children and young people to identify situations that lead to discrimination of some and privileges of others. Sexual orientation is among the factors mentioned under the equality umbrella. The curriculum also lists academic fields considered appropriate for school activities, including LGBT+ studies and gender studies.

The Act on Equal Status and Equal Rights Irrespective of Gender

Article 15 of the Act on Equal Status and Equal Rights Irrespective of Gender No. 150/2020, requires, among other things, age-appropriate equality and gender education at all school levels, teaching about gender stereotypes, gendered educational and career choices, and issues affecting disabled people and LGBT+ people.

Reykjavík City Human Rights Policy

Reykjavík City's human rights policy is based on the principle of equality. It aims to ensure all people can enjoy human rights regardless of gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics. Section 7.3 establishes Reykjavík City as a service hub for these factors. Section 7.3.1 states, "All education, recreation, and cultural activities should account for LGBT+ participants. Various types of families should be discussed openly and without prejudice. Teachers and staff in schools, after-school programs, and other children and youth activities will demonstrate the diversity of human life in their work, for example, when choosing teaching and recreational materials used at all education levels. School administrators and those responsible for school and recreational activities on behalf of the City should ensure students receive LGBT+ education, as it is the City's policy that LGBT+ individuals are respected and that the topic is addressed in line with the general part of the National Curriculum from 2011.”

The Gender Autonomy Act

Article 5 of Act No. 80/2019 on Gender Autonomy states children under 15 can change their official gender registration (and name) with guardian support. From age 15, children can change their gender registration and name independently. Schools must obviously be transgender-friendly to ensure trans children's well-being. The Human Rights & Democracy Office has compiled information about trans children in schools.