Alþjóðagjaldeyrissjóðurinn

Alþjóðagjaldey, also known as the International Agreements chapter of the Icelandic Constitution, is a part of the Icelandic Constitution that governs the country's international relations. The chapter outlines the principles and procedures for Iceland's participation in international agreements, treaties, and organizations.

Article 1 of the Alþjóðagjaldey chapter states that Iceland shall respect the principles of international law and shall not unreasonably impede the entry into force of international agreements to which it is a party. The chapter also provides that the President of Iceland shall be the supreme authority in matters concerning international relations, but that the Althing, the Icelandic Parliament, shall have the authority to ratify or reject international agreements.

The Alþjóðagjaldey chapter further provides that international agreements shall be subject to review and approval by the Althing before they are ratified. The chapter also specifies the procedure for the ratification and accession to international agreements, including the requirement for a two-thirds majority vote in the Althing.

The Alþjóðagjaldey chapter has been amended several times since its introduction, with the most recent amendments being made in 2011. The chapter has been interpreted by the Icelandic courts to require that international agreements be in line with the principles of the Icelandic Constitution, including the right to life and liberty, and the prohibition on discrimination.

Overall, the Alþjóðagjaldey chapter plays a crucial role in guiding Iceland's international relations and ensures that the country's international agreements are in line with its constitutional principles. The chapter has been effective in maintaining Iceland's sovereignty while facilitating its participation in international organizations and agreements.