Mateusz Gabríel Kowalczyk Róbertsson

Experience in Union Work and Other Work Experience

Originally from Łomża, Poland, I moved to Iceland in 2013 and became an Icelandic citizen in 2022. I bring a diverse professional background in customer service, technical functions and managing day-to-day operations, complemented by extensive experience in workplace advocacy.

I currently serve as a union representative for VR at Ofar ehf. (formerly Origo Lausnir) and am a member of VR’s Consultative Council. Additionally, I am proud to be part of the board of Ungliðaráð VR, which focuses on advocating for the interests of younger members within the union. My previous roles include serving as a union representative at Linde Gas and Olís, as well as being a member of Efling’s Consultative Council and a board member of the union's Vacation Fund.

Key Focus Areas

I am committed to fostering fair, inclusive, and supportive workplaces. My experience and dedication to workers’ rights make me a strong candidate for the VR Board, where I aim to represent members effectively and collaboratively.

Empowering All Voices in a Changing Labour Market

The Icelandic labour market is undergoing significant changes. With advancements in technology and shifts in the economy, the way people work and the protections they need are evolving rapidly. As a candidate for the Board of VR, I want to contribute to discussions that shape these changes, ensuring they reflect the interests of all workers.

Having moved to Iceland in 2013 from Poland, I have experienced firsthand what it means to navigate a new labour market – learning about workplace rights, reading contracts and integrating into an unfamiliar system. Now an Icelandic citizen, I have worked actively for many years to support my fellow workers, particularly those who may not always feel they have a voice. My background spans customer service, technical functions and managing day-to-day operations. I currently serve as a VR union representative at Ofar ehf. (formerly Origo Lausnir) and am a member of VR’s Consultative Council. Additionally, I sit on the inaugural Board of Ungliðaráð, which focuses on advocating for the interests of younger members within the union.

Discussions about the future of work often focus on technological progress, but just as important are the social and structural changes happening alongside it. Foreign workers are a significant part of the Icelandic labour market, yet they remain underrepresented in conversations about wages, workplace policies and conditions. But by supporting stronger engagement from all workers, local and foreign, we help create fairer, more equal and more transparent workplaces.

Workplace democracy, equal opportunities and proper enforcement of collective agreements matter for all of us. The ASÍ-SA agreement on foreign workers in the Icelandic labour market emphasises that foreign workers receive fair wages and working conditions, in line with the current collective agreements and laws in the country. When labour laws and agreements are applied fairly across the board, it strengthens the entire workforce, preventing discrimination and unfair treatment of people in vulnerable positions.

The role of the VR Board is to work collectively to improve conditions for workers, balancing different perspectives and priorities. I hope to contribute by bringing attention to the experiences of immigrant workers, strengthening communication and supporting efforts to ensure that all workers are informed about their rights and opportunities. For a diverse workforce is a strength and making sure that all voices are included benefits both workers and the broader labour market.

It would be a privilege to be part of this work, collaborating with my fellow board members to address the challenges and opportunities ahead.

Mateusz Gabríel Kowalczyk Róbertsson,
Candidate for the Board of VR