Iceland Goes to the Polls in High-Stakes EU Referendum
Polls show a razor-thin race as voters weigh fisheries, sovereignty and a possible path back to accession talks.
- Icelanders are voting today to decide whether to resume accession negotiations with the European Union, with polls open from 09:00 to 22:00 GMT and results expected in the early hours of Sunday.
- Reykjavik halted accession talks in 2013, 13 years after Iceland's banking system collapsed in 2008; the European Commission has indicated negotiations could be finalized in one or two years if voters approve.
- The Independence Party argues against handing "decision-making powers" to Brussels on fisheries, agriculture and natural resources, as sovereignty and the Common Fisheries Policy dominate the debate.
- A Yes vote would initiate accession negotiations, though any deal requires a second referendum, constitutional amendments, and approval from the European Union's 27 member states.
- Although Iceland is part of the European Economic Area and Schengen zone, high interest rates at 8% and inflation of 5.6% drive the current debate, with many Icelanders divided on membership.
33 Articles
33 Articles
Iceland goes to the polls in high-stakes EU referendum
Icelanders vote today on whether to resume EU membership talks in a high-stakes referendum. Polls show the race is too close to call, with a slim Yes lead eroding in the final stretch. Results are expected early on Sunday.
This Saturday the Icelanders will vote on whether to renegotiate accession with the EU, which also has to do with the world situation. On the ground, it will be clear what is at stake for the island and Europe.
As Icelanders prepare to decide this Saturday, August 29, whether to reopen accession negotiations with the European Union, one issue is fueling their concerns: fishing. Seafood accounts for nearly 40% of the country's merchandise exports. For some, joining the EU would mean surrendering hard-won sovereignty.
Icelanders are deciding on Saturday's reopening of discussions with Brussels, 11 years after the country's candidacy was abandoned. Polls predict a tight result.
Iceland is voting on the start of EU accession talks, both camps are on the same level in polls. Many hope for financial stability, but there are doubts.
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