Unlike a final membership vote, the referendum would decide whether accession talks resume, with any eventual agreement requiring a second public vote. Supporters point to economic stability and security, while opponents remain concerned about fisheries, agriculture and national sovereignty.

Author: Alexandre Lallemand;

Iceland applied to join the EU in 2009 following its banking crisis but suspended negotiations in 2013 after a change of government. Prime Minister Kristrún Frostadóttir pledged the referendum after taking office in 2024. Iceland already participates in the European Economic Area and Schengen, meaning many EU rules already apply despite the country remaining outside the bloc.