Icelandic lawmaker calls for review of naming laws after Mohamad Kourani changes surname

The chair of the Icelandic parliament’s general and educational affairs committee suggests that the country’s naming laws should be reviewed following Mohamad Kourani’s recent decision to change his surname to Th. Jóhannesson. Bryndís Haraldsdóttir believes in the importance of individuals’ rights to change their names.

Kourani’s name change, registered in the national registry, raises questions about existing regulations. Bryndís stated, “At first glance, it seems there should be a legislative examination,” when asked if Kourani’s case highlights naming laws in Iceland. She plans to gather information on how common such changes are and how they are handled in neighboring countries.

As part of her inquiries at the next parliament session, Bryndís intends to discuss the issue with the Minister of Justice, Guðrún Hafsteinsdóttir. While acknowledging certain perspectives within the ministry, she emphasizes the need to address the issue come autumn, possibly within her committee.

Additionally, Kourani has a history of criminal convictions, adding complexity to his name change. Bryndís described the circumstances surrounding individuals like Kourani as concerning, noting the need for safeguards to ensure that naming rights are not misused by those with a criminal past.

She raised the issue of whether the right to change one’s name should be restricted to citizens of Iceland, particularly considering the implications for foreign nationals who may change their names during their stay.

Bryndís affirmed her belief that any legislations regarding name changes should consider all aspects, as historical examples have shown that some offenders have exploited this right. However, she argues against limiting this fundamental right based on a person’s legal history, asserting such limitations would likely infringe on constitutional rights.