Distinguished Political Scientist and Small States Studies Pioneer
Associated with :
The University of IcelandDr. Baldur Þórhallsson serves as Professor of Political Science and Jean Monnet Chair in European Studies at the University of Iceland, where he has established himself as a leading global authority on small state studies and European integration. After earning his Ph.D. and MA in Political Science from the University of Essex in 1999 and 1994 respectively, he founded the Centre for Small State Studies at the University of Iceland in 2002 and re-established the Icelandic Institute of International Affairs. His research focuses primarily on small state studies, European integration, and Iceland's foreign policy, resulting in numerous influential publications including "Iceland and European Integration: On the Edge" and "The Role of Small States in the European Union." His academic impact extends beyond Iceland through visiting professorships at Williams College and Queen Mary University of London, while his practical influence is evidenced through his role as a deputy member of Alþingi (2011-2012) representing the Social Democratic Alliance. In March 2024, he announced his candidacy for the President of Iceland as an independent candidate, building on his extensive expertise in Icelandic politics and international relations