22:00 - 31.08.2026

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August 31, Fineko/abc.az. In a national referendum, Icelandic voters rejected the government’s proposal to restart accession negotiations with the European Union.

The final tally showed 52.8% of voters opposing the resumption of EU membership talks, while 47.2% voted in favor. Analysts note that voters in Iceland—a nation with a strong economy, balanced fiscal policy, and robust pension system—preferred retaining full sovereignty over national resources, particularly fisheries, while continuing integration through the European Economic Area (EEA).

Prime Minister Kristrún Frostadóttir stated that the government would respect the democratic decision and set aside plans for EU accession negotiations.