varnarþjónustu

Varnarþjónustu is an Icelandic term that translates to "defense service" or "national service." Historically, it referred to the compulsory military service that was in place in Iceland. While Iceland has not maintained a standing army, the concept of national service has been debated and discussed throughout its history.

The Icelandic Coast Guard, established in 1926, is the primary maritime security and defense force of Iceland. It is responsible for maritime surveillance, search and rescue operations, law enforcement at sea, and fisheries inspection. The Coast Guard operates a fleet of ships and aircraft.

In recent years, there has been renewed discussion regarding Iceland's defense capabilities and the potential for reintroducing a form of national service. These discussions often revolve around Iceland's strategic location, its membership in NATO, and the evolving global security landscape. Various models for national service have been proposed, ranging from voluntary service to a more structured system.

However, as of now, Iceland does not have compulsory military conscription. The country relies on its Coast Guard and its commitment to collective defense through NATO for its security. The debate surrounding varnarþjónustu reflects a broader conversation about national identity, security responsibilities, and the role of citizens in contributing to the nation's defense.