Icelanders have voted to reject a referendum to restart negotiations for membership in the European Union. Final results from the National Electoral Commission showed the measure was defeated 52.8% to 47.2%, though reports from the national broadcaster indicated a close split of 52.5% to 47.5%. The capital of Reykjavik was the only area where a majority supported the resumption of talks.
Opponents of the measure focused on the importance of maintaining control over the nation's prized fishing waters and natural resources, arguing that the burdens of membership outweigh the benefits. They noted that Iceland already enjoys frictionless movement of people and goods through the European Economic Area and the Schengen Area without compromising its sovereignty. In contrast, supporters argued that EU membership would lower inflation and interest rates while providing more stability than the volatile króna. Backers also emphasized the need for European solidarity to tackle climate change and provide protection against geopolitical threats, specifically citing U.S. President Donald Trump's comments regarding Greenland and Iceland.
The referendum, held on Saturday, was moved forward by the left-leaning coalition government elected in 2024. This follows a period where previous talks had ended in 2015 under a euroskeptic government. While the European Union expressed respect for the Icelandic people's choice, officials in Brussels had hoped the vote would curb euroskepticism and expand the bloc. The result was welcomed by far-right euroskeptic parties and effectively closes the door on Iceland's bid to join the union for now.