Lögreglan

Lögreglan, the Icelandic Police, is the national police service of Iceland. It is responsible for maintaining public order and safety, preventing and investigating crime, enforcing laws, and providing emergency response. The force operates across the country through district police stations and is led by the Director of Public Safety, known as the Lögreglustjóri.

Organization and duties: The Lögreglan is organized into regional police districts with local stations, supplemented by national-level units. Core divisions typically include patrol and response, criminal investigations, traffic enforcement, forensics and support services, narcotics and organized crime, and international liaison. A special operations unit handles high-risk incidents, critical incidents, and planned security operations. In addition to conventional policing, the force participates in border control tasks and public safety operations as required.

Procedures and policy: Icelandic police emphasize professional standards, human rights, and community policing as guiding principles. De-escalation and proportionate use of force are integral to training and practice. Officers are generally not armed for routine patrols; firearms and other weapons are carried by specially trained personnel in limited circumstances and under strict authorization. Recruitment and training are conducted through the Icelandic Police College, with ongoing professional development and language training given Iceland’s cautious approach to policing and the country’s tourism-driven context.

Oversight and cooperation: Lögreglan operates under Icelandic law and the authority of the Ministry of Justice and Public Security. It maintains domestic oversight through parliamentary and Inspectorate mechanisms and is subject to oversight by public bodies and the ombudsman. International cooperation includes liaison with Interpol, Europol, and neighboring Nordic police services.

Role in society: The police’s responsibilities span crime prevention, investigation, traffic safety, public order, disaster response, and coordination with other agencies to ensure public safety and trust within Iceland.