The first cabinet of Jóhanna Sigurðardóttir was formed in Iceland, making her the country's first female prime minister and the world's first openly gay head of government.

The First cabinet of Jóhanna Sigurðardóttir, a pivotal moment in Iceland's political landscape, was formally constituted on 1 February 2009. This significant governmental shift occurred in the immediate aftermath of profound national turmoil, specifically following the resignation of the Second cabinet of Geir Haarde. Haarde's government stepped down under immense public pressure, fueled by widespread protests that erupted in response to the devastating 2008-2009 Icelandic financial crisis.

The Preceding Political Upheaval

The formation of Jóhanna Sigurðardóttir's first cabinet was not a routine political transition but a direct consequence of an unprecedented period of economic collapse and social unrest in Iceland.

The 2008-2009 Icelandic Financial Crisis

Iceland, a nation heavily reliant on its banking sector, was disproportionately impacted by the global financial crisis that began in 2008. The crisis saw the spectacular collapse of the country's three largest banks – Glitnir, Landsbanki, and Kaupthing – which had accumulated massive debts relative to Iceland's small economy. This economic catastrophe led to a severe currency devaluation, a steep decline in the stock market, rampant inflation, and a significant rise in unemployment. The nation faced the very real prospect of state bankruptcy, causing immense financial hardship and a deep sense of betrayal among the populace.

The "Pots and Pans Revolution"

In response to the economic meltdown and a pervasive feeling that the government and financial institutions were responsible for the crisis, widespread public demonstrations began in late 2008 and intensified into early 2009. These protests, colloquially known as the "Pots and Pans Revolution" or "Kitchenware Revolution" (Icelandic: Búsáhaldabyltingin), involved thousands of Icelanders converging on the Alþingi (Parliament) building in Reykjavík. Demonstrators loudly expressed their dissatisfaction, banging pots and pans, demanding the resignation of the government, new elections, and accountability for those deemed responsible for the crisis. These sustained and vocal protests, unusual in Iceland's typically calm political climate, signaled a complete loss of public trust in the incumbent administration.

Resignation of Geir Haarde's Second Cabinet

Faced with relentless public anger, dwindling political support, and the overwhelming economic crisis, Prime Minister Geir H. Haarde announced his resignation and that of his coalition government on 23 January 2009. His resignation acknowledged the public's loss of confidence and paved the way for the establishment of a new, interim government charged with steering the country through the immediate crisis and preparing for snap elections.

Formation of the First Jóhanna Sigurðardóttir Cabinet

In the wake of Geir Haarde's resignation, negotiations swiftly commenced to form a new government that could restore stability and public confidence. On 1 February 2009, Jóhanna Sigurðardóttir, previously the Minister of Social Affairs and Social Security, was appointed Prime Minister, leading a minority coalition government comprising her Social Democratic Alliance and the Left-Green Movement. This appointment was historically significant as Jóhanna Sigurðardóttir became the world's first openly lesbian head of government. Her cabinet's immediate mandate was to address the economic fallout, implement emergency measures, and prepare for parliamentary elections, which were subsequently held in April 2009. This interim government aimed to bring transparency and a fresh approach to governance during an exceptionally challenging period for the nation.

Key Takeaways

Frequently Asked Questions

When was Jóhanna Sigurðardóttir's first cabinet formed?
The First cabinet of Jóhanna Sigurðardóttir was formed on 1 February 2009.
Why did Geir Haarde's cabinet resign in 2009?
Geir Haarde's Second cabinet resigned due to overwhelming public protests stemming from the 2008-2009 Icelandic financial crisis, which led to a complete loss of public trust in the government.
What was the "Pots and Pans Revolution"?
The "Pots and Pans Revolution" was a series of sustained public protests in Iceland in late 2008 and early 2009, where demonstrators, often banging pots and pans, demanded the resignation of the government and accountability for the financial crisis.
What was the primary goal of Jóhanna Sigurðardóttir's first cabinet?
The primary goals of her first cabinet were to stabilize the Icelandic economy in the wake of the financial crisis, restore public trust in government, and prepare for snap parliamentary elections.
What was historically significant about Jóhanna Sigurðardóttir's appointment as Prime Minister?
Jóhanna Sigurðardóttir became the first openly lesbian head of government in the world upon her appointment as Prime Minister of Iceland.