Narrow Majority of Icelanders Back EU Membership Talks, Poll Shows Ahead of Referendum
A Maskina poll found 51.3% support reopening talks, while 48.7% oppose them, as the referendum will not decide EU membership.
- A narrow majority of Icelanders support restarting negotiations on joining the European Union ahead of Saturday's referendum, according to a new opinion poll released Tuesday.
- Rising living costs and the war in Ukraine have rekindled interest in joining the bloc, while repeated threats by President Donald Trump to annex Greenland have also revived enthusiasm for EU membership.
- The survey shows 51.3% of respondents support holding negotiations with Brussels, while 48.7% are opposed; the ballot itself is not a vote on membership, requiring a second referendum on any final deal.
- A foreign ministry memo estimates accession talks could begin by the end of 2026 if voters approve on Saturday, with negotiations concluding within 18 to 24 months.
- Iceland currently participates in the European single market and Schengen via the European Free Trade Association , but membership would grant direct influence in decision-making bodies like the European Commission.
13 Articles
13 Articles
In Iceland, 51% of citizens support the resumption of EU accession negotiationsOn the eve of the referendum 51.3% of Icelanders support the resumption of EU accession negotiations. Voting will take place on August 29.
If Iceland joins the EU, where does that leave Norway?
On Saturday, Icelanders will vote on whether to resume negotiations to join the European Union. A “Yes” could squeeze Norway’s position in the European Economic Area and put Oslo under pressure to reconsider its own relationship with Brussels — a question with a long and divisive history.
The war in Ukraine and Trump's threats to annex Greenland have sparked Icelanders' interest in joining the EU.
Narrow majority of Icelanders back EU membership talks, poll shows ahead of referendum
COPENHAGEN, Aug 26 (Reuters) - A narrow majority of Icelanders support restarting negotiations on joining the European Union in a nationwide referendum set for Saturday, according to a new opinion poll, down slightly from the previous survey. The Augu...
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