Eftirlitsinstutúta

Eftirlitsinstutúta, officially known as the *Eftirlitsinstutútið við Alvöru Brot*, is an independent Icelandic investigative institution established in 2013 to investigate serious crimes, particularly those involving corruption, organized crime, and financial misconduct. Its creation followed public demand for greater accountability in high-profile cases, including the 2008 financial crisis and subsequent scandals that exposed widespread corruption and mismanagement in Icelandic politics and business.

The institute operates under a mandate to conduct impartial investigations, free from political interference, and is funded through public contributions rather than government budgets. Its investigative powers include the authority to summon witnesses, request documents, and conduct searches, though it lacks the ability to prosecute cases directly. Instead, findings are typically referred to the Attorney General’s Office for potential criminal proceedings.

Eftirlitsinstutúta has been involved in several high-profile cases, including the *Landsbanki scandal*, where former executives were accused of fraudulent practices leading to the bank’s collapse, and investigations into alleged corruption in municipal governance. The institution’s work has contributed to increased public trust in Iceland’s judicial system, though its operations have also sparked debate over transparency and the balance between investigative independence and accountability.

The institute’s structure includes a board of directors, an investigative team, and a legal advisory unit. Its mandate is periodically reviewed to ensure it remains aligned with Iceland’s evolving legal and ethical standards. While praised for its role in uncovering systemic wrongdoing, critics have occasionally questioned its efficiency and the timeliness of its investigations. Nonetheless, it remains a key institution in Iceland’s efforts to combat corruption and uphold legal integrity.