Icelandic public service broadcaster RÚV was the first to break the story. The relationship between Þórsdóttir and the boy, Eiríkur Ásmundsson, began within the framework of a youth organization in the religious group Trú og Líf in Kópavogur. Ásmundsson had sought out the group due to a difficult family situation.
According to Ásmundsson, he was later denied contact with his child, while he paid child support for 18 years. RÚV has obtained documents showing that Ásmundsson turned to both the Ministry of Justice and church family services in an attempt to gain visitation rights, but was denied regular contact despite this.
At the time of the child's birth, Ásthildur Lóa Þórsdóttir was 23 years old, and Ásmundsson was 16. Although the age of consent in Iceland is 15, there are exceptions for relationships where a power imbalance exists, such as between leaders and youth. Violating such rules can lead to imprisonment for up to three years.
An additional controversy has arisen regarding a possible breach of confidentiality. A relative of Ásmundsson allegedly informed the Prime Minister's office about the matter in confidence, but Þórsdóttir reportedly became aware of both the report and the sender. She then allegedly contacted the person and even visited their home.
After the information became public, Þórsdóttir chose to resign from her ministerial post. The government has not yet commented on potential legal or political consequences.
