The narrative begins with a vivid description of an ocean dip ritual on Reykjavík’s Skarfaklettur beach, where women gather to embrace the invigorating yet frigid waters of the North Atlantic. This communal activity is not merely about physical endurance; it embodies a larger social philosophy known as konur eru konum bestar, which translates to “women are the best to women.” This phrase affirms and revolution against traditional narratives suggesting that female interactions often breed competition or hostility.
Historically, there existed a more negative counterpart: konur eru konum verstar, meaning "women are worst to each other." However, contemporary advocates—the article notes influencers Elísabet Gunnars and Andrea Magnúsdóttir—have modernized and flipped this notion into one promoting solidarity among women.
Rooted in its history—2025 marks the fifty-year anniversary of the 1975 women's strike—Icelandic culture has shown significant progress in gender equality coalescing in the recently formed government led by three female-led parties. The new prime minister, Kristrún Frostadóttir, is the country's youngest-ever leader at 36 who stands with female President Halla Tómasdóttir. Frostadóttir emphasizes that their government is not just about being women-led but also about demonstrating a softer side of power. They enjoy casual meetings and support each other emotionally while tackling serious decisions. This community stands as a beacon of hope amidst global societal challenges.
‘Women are the best to women’: has Iceland found the antidote to toxic ‘girlboss’ feminism?
Fifty years ago, Icelandic women went on strike, kickstarting a gender revolution. Today, the concept of ‘konur eru konum bestar’ is everywhere – including the female-led coalition government
Miranda Bryant
