In Iceland, the International Day of Happiness was celebrated

The International Day of Happiness was celebrated in the University of Iceland's conference hall on March 20. The theme for this year's conference was Love and Compassion. The event was organised by the Directorate of Health in Iceland with María Heimisdóttir, Director of Health, delivering the opening speech.

President Halla Tómasdóttir and her spouse, Björn Skúlason, were in attendance. As president, Halla has prioritised love and compassion. President Tómasdóttir is a strong supporter of the Knights of Love movement and fund, which was created in memory of Bryndís Klara Birgisdóttir, a young girl who was tragically killed in August 2024. The fund is dedicated to fostering love as a powerful force in society and will support initiatives that enhance the well-being and safety of young people within Icelandic culture.

During the symposium, Dr. Dóra Guðrún Guðmundsdóttir, Director of Public Health at the Directorate of Health and founder of the Wellbeing Economy Forum, presented the president with the inaugural deck of Knights of Love cards. The deck contains 52 pieces of advice designed to promote love and compassion. The event featured a joyful dance led by actress Edda Björgvinsdóttir. It concluded with a community song by Eggert Benedikt Guðmundsson from the Prime Minister's Office, who also played the guitar.

The engaging talks, the uplifting atmosphere, and the enthusiastic participation of attendees resulted in a great event. Among the crucial participants were Hera Fönn Lárusdóttir, a 14-year-old student from Hveragerði Primary School; Sigrún Daníelsdóttir, project manager for Mental Health at the Directorate of Health; Professor Viðar Halldórsson from the University of Iceland; and Kári Einarsson, chairman of the Commercial College Student Association. The conference Chair was Elín Hirst, project manager of the Wellbeing Economy Forum.