As we’ve emphasised (as a lot of people don’t seem to know this), you don’t need to be a citizen to vote in municipal elections. By the same token, you don’t need to be a citizen to run, either. While being an immigrant does not necessarily mean you’re not a citizen, immigrants in Iceland of any legal status bring a fresh perspective to politics that locals simply don’t have.
In keeping with this, we contacted every single foreign-born candidate running for Reykjavík City Council this year and asked them the same three questions. Here’s Phiangphit Thiphakdi, running for the Capital City List in the 16th seat.
1. What are you most hoping to accomplish, should you get into Reykjavík City Council? (If you are at the 24th seat or below, what are you hoping your candidacy will do for your party?)
I hope I can improve city services, and to see Reykjavík clean like it was in the past, and ranked the most livable city in the world.
2. Why do you believe it’s important for immigrants to take part in municipal elections?
To get a wide variety of opinions.
3. What is, in your opinion, the greatest challenge that immigrants in Reykjavík face when it comes to settling in the city and trying to make a life for themselves?
First the language and then the high cost of living.
Check out the overview of the other immigrant candidates’ interviews here, and the other election coverage here!
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