REYKJAVIK — Iceland began counting ballots after voters decided whether the government should reopen negotiations for membership in the European Union. Opinion surveys indicated an exceptionally close contest, with different polls showing narrow leads for both sides.
The campaign centred on the high cost of living, economic stability, national sovereignty, security and control over Iceland’s valuable fishing grounds. Supporters argued that closer European integration could provide greater economic stability, while opponents warned that EU rules could weaken Iceland’s authority over fisheries and domestic policy.Iceland submitted an EU membership application in 2009 following its financial crisis but suspended negotiations in 2013. The country already participates in Europe’s single market and the Schengen travel area without being an EU member.A vote in favour would only authorize negotiations with Brussels. Any final membership agreement would have to be approved through a second national referendum.
Why it matters: The decision could reshape Iceland’s relationship with Europe and extend the EU’s strategic influence in the North Atlantic and Arctic region.
