A referendum on the resumption of European Union membership negotiations is being held in Iceland on 29 August 2026.

Iceland applied to join the EU in 2009, but negotiations have been suspended since 2013. Subsequent governments have insisted that negotiations be approved by referendum before they resume. After the 2024 parliamentary election, the new coalition government of the Social Democratic Alliance, Viðreisn (Liberal Reform Party) and the People’s Party agreed to hold a referendum by 2027, although the People’s Party does not support EU membership itself. The Yes campaign argues that Iceland already adopts many EU laws through the European Economic Area (EEA) but has no direct influence over EU decisions. Supporters also highlight potential economic benefits, including greater currency stability through possible euro adoption, and argue that membership could strengthen Iceland’s position during geopolitical uncertainty, citing the Greenland crisis. The No campaign focuses on sovereignty, arguing that EU membership could reduce Iceland’s control over agriculture, fisheries, and natural resources. Opponents also criticize EU bureaucracy and argue that the current EEA arrangement provides economic access to Europe without giving up national decision-making power.

Links:
Referendum on the resumption of EU accession negotiations

Iceland could become the EU’s next member – but not if big fishing companies have their way