Resignation and Legal Context
Ásthildur Lóa Thórsdóttir, 's minister for children and education, resigned after disclosing a past relationship with a teenager, leading to the birth of her child 35 years ago.
Iceland's age of consent is 15, but it's illegal for adults to engage in sexual relations with minors under 18 whom they teach, facing up to 12 years in prison. Thórsdóttir denied violating this law.
Personal and Political Repercussions
The child's father, initially granted contact, faced restrictions as the child grew, despite paying 18 years of child support. Thórsdóttir denied hindering his attempts to visit.
Thórsdóttir's resignation, effective Sunday, was accepted by Iceland's president, though she continues as a member of parliament. Iceland's Prime Minister and the People's Party disputed claims of misconduct by Thórsdóttir.