Iceland Rejects Proposal to Restart EU Membership Negotiations

Icelandic voters turned down a proposal to restart negotiations for full European Union membership, with 52.8% voting against and 47.2% in favor, according to the official count released by public broadcaster RÚV. The referendum, held on Saturday, asked whether the country should resume accession talks that were suspended 13 years ago.

Iceland remains closely linked to the EU as a member of the European Economic Area and the Schengen zone, arrangements that allow the free movement of people, goods, capital and services. It shares this relationship only with Norway and Liechtenstein.

The issue resurfaced after the left-leaning coalition government, elected in 2024, moved up a planned 2025 referendum. Opponents emphasized the importance of the fishing industry and argued that Iceland already enjoys the benefits of the single market and Schengen area without the sovereignty concessions required for full EU membership. They also warned that Iceland's influence would be limited in the European Parliament and suggested the country could pursue independent trade agreements, such as with China.

Supporters contended that EU membership would help lower inflation and interest rates, provide currency stability through the euro, and facilitate cooperation on cross-border challenges like climate change.

"The nation rejects accession negotiations with the EU," RÚV reported.

The result is expected to settle the debate for the second time, following a euroskeptic government that halted talks in 2015.