Proponents of resuming Iceland EU membership negotiations hold a narrow 51,2 procent to 48,8 procent lead in an initial referendum count, according to preliminary results reported by Icelandic broadcaster RÚV. Approximately 87.000 ballots were tallied overnight out of roughly 270.000 eligible voters, with final results expected later today.
Iceland EU Membership Referendum Background and Prior Bids
Iceland first applied for European Union membership in 2009 during a period of economic crisis. A new government subsequently halted those accession negotiations in 2013. The country already belongs to the Schengen Area, the European Economic Area, and NATO.
Economic Arguments Over Inflation and Sovereignty
Voters faced a deeply divided debate leading up to the ballot, with pre-election polls showing the ‘yes’ and ‘no’ camps running neck-and-neck. According to pro-negotiation advocates, restarting accession talks will lead to a less high inflation and lower interest rates. Conversely, the ‘no’ camp argues that these economic arguments are exaggerated. Opponents warn that joining the EU will compromise the sovereignty of Iceland and fear for the consequences for the fisheries.
Did you know? While a majority that votes yes does not mean direct accession to the EU, in first instance talks will be conducted. If the inhabitants have indeed voted to resume talks, after the negotiations a second referendum will follow on the conditions for EU membership. If the population then votes no, Iceland does not join the EU.
Brussels Perspective and Arctic Strategic Importance
The EU will undoubtedly be pleased with a victory for the yes camp. In Brussels they see Iceland as a country that could relatively easily accede to the EU. The location of the country is also becoming increasingly important because of the growing attention for security in the Arctic region.
Frequently Asked Questions
Did Iceland vote to join the European Union immediately?
No. A majority that votes yes means not direct accession to the EU. In first instance talks will be conducted. If the inhabitants have indeed voted to resume talks, after the negotiations a second referendum will follow on the conditions for EU membership. If the population then votes no, Iceland does not join the EU.
Why did Iceland stop its previous EU talks?
IJsland vroeg in 2009 het EU-lidmaatschap aan, tijdens een periode van economische crisis. In 2013 zette een nieuwe regering de onderhandelingen stop.
What are the main arguments against joining the EU?
Opponents fear upon joining the EU for the sovereignty of Iceland and fear for the consequences for the fisheries.
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