Iceland goes to the polls, and the fish will decide: Will it join the European Union?

Iceland will hold a referendum on August 29 to renew talks on joining the European Union. The main concern is losing control over the fishing industry, the nation's pride and economic backbone, 50 years after the Cod Wars with Britain. On the other hand, Trump's threats against Greenland, Russian activity in the region, and economic benefits from Brussels push for a positive answer. A Gallup poll shows a tie: 46% in favor and 46% against renewing talks.

Iceland will hold a decisive referendum on August 29 on whether to renew talks on joining the European Union, which were frozen in 2013. At the center of the public debate is the fear of losing control over the fishing industry, the nation's pride and economic pillar, 50 years after the Cod Wars with Britain. A Gallup poll conducted this month shows a tie: 46% in favor of renewing talks and 46% against, with 8% undecided. However, polls show a majority against actual accession to the bloc. The debate takes place against the backdrop of US President Donald Trump's threats to take over neighboring Greenland, Russian navy activity in the North Atlantic, and Brussels' offer of significant economic benefits. Foreign Minister Þórdís Kolbrún R. Gylfadóttir said that NATO and the defense agreement with the US will remain the security foundation, but joining the EU could be a valuable addition, especially in economic security. The current referendum is only on renewing talks. If the majority votes in favor, a period of two years or more of negotiations with Brussels will begin, followed by a second referendum, likely in 2028, on the accession itself. Prime Minister Kristrún Frostadóttir presented the vote as a "now or never" opportunity.