Lögbundin

Lögbundin is an Icelandic term used to describe something that is established, defined, or required by statute rather than by private agreement or discretionary decision. The word combines lög (law) with bundin (bound), conveying the sense that the matter is bound by legal provisions. In English contexts the concept is often translated as statutory.

In practice, lögbundin rights or duties refer to entitlements and obligations that arise directly from law and are enforceable independently of individual contracts or policies. Examples include statutory rights in social protection, age limits for certain activities, and rules governing pensions, taxation, or employment protections. These rights and duties exist irrespective of an employer’s policies or a private contract, though contracts may supplement or specify their application.

The concept serves to distinguish statutory provisions from contractual or discretionary measures. When a right or obligation is not explicitly stated in law but depends on agreements or discretionary policy, it is not considered lögbundin. The scope of lögbundin provisions can vary by jurisdiction and may be altered only through legislative action or formal regulatory processes.

In Icelandic legal and governmental discourse the term is common in formal texts, statutes, and official explanations. Similar terms in other Scandinavian languages—such as lagstadgad or lagbunden—reflect the same general idea that certain rights and duties are imposed or recognized by law.