Riots continue for 2nd day in Reykjavik

On 21 January 2009 riots broke out for a second day in the capital city of Reykjavik as demonstrators -- calling for the resignation of Prime Minister Geir Haarde and his administration in the wake of the country's ongoing financial crisis -- clashed with authorities. Protesters threw eggs, paint and firecrackers at Haarde's limousine and several government buildings before riot police moved in to disperse the crowd of approximately 3,000 people. No injuries were reported. Although traditionally demonstrations are rare in Iceland, protests against the government and the national bank have been ongoing since the global economic downturn resulted in the collapse of the nation's financial system in October 2008. Demonstrators blame the government for financial mismanagement and poor economic policy and are calling for the current administration to take responsibility for the current crisis.