According to public broadcaster RUV, Iceland has rejected the government's proposal to hold EU accession negotiations in a referendum, with only a small number of ballots left to count.
Preliminary results show that a majority of Icelandic voters do not support the plan to open negotiations with the EU. This marks a significant development in the context of Iceland-EU relations, which have long been a contentious issue in this Nordic nation.
Iceland, a member of the European Economic Area (EEA) but not the EU, has had discussions about potential membership for years. This referendum result is seen as a clear reflection of the public's stance on the direction of Iceland's relationship with Brussels.
Officials and analysts suggest that rejecting the plan could prompt the Icelandic government to reassess its diplomatic and economic strategies, while strengthening the position of those who advocate for maintaining independence and control over sectors such as fisheries—considered a core national interest for Iceland.
Further details on the specific vote percentages and next steps are expected to be announced in the coming period.
