Heiða Kristín Helgadóttir, a former deputy parliament member in Iceland, has been appointed to assist Foreign Minister Þorgerður Katrín Gunnarsdóttir as the country prepares for a national referendum on whether to continue negotiations for EU membership. This referendum is set to take place at the end of August 2026, marking a significant political moment for Iceland as it weighs its future relationship with the European Union. Heiða's role is especially critical as the foreign ministry has had limited resources, operating with only one assistant since December 2025 due to the departure of Aðalsteinn Leifsson, who left to focus on his municipal election campaign.

Heiða confirmed her new appointment during a conversation with Vísir, indicating her responsibilities will include special advisory tasks related to the upcoming referendum. The political landscape in Iceland has been tense regarding EU membership discussions, and the referendum is expected to draw considerable attention from both the public and political spheres. Furthermore, the results of this referendum could greatly influence the direction of Iceland’s foreign policy and its relationship with the EU moving forward.

The national referendum is poised to be a pivotal event reflecting public sentiment on EU membership after years of negotiation. Moreover, with Heiða stepping in at a crucial time for the foreign ministry, her previous experience as a deputy parliament member is likely to play a role in navigating debates and discussions surrounding the referendum, ensuring that a balanced perspective is presented to the voters.