Iceland’s EU vote puts its fishing wealth — and hard-won rights — on the line

VESTMANNAEYJAR, Iceland — Fishing captain Jon Atli Gunnarsson, who was just eight years old when Iceland won its last "Cod War" against Britain, remains resolute in his stance against handing over any fishing rights to the European Union. Fishing, a cornerstone of Iceland's economy and a core aspect of its national identity, is a major point of contention ahead of today's referendum on whether to restart EU membership talks, which were suspended in 2013.

On the Westman Islands, a significant fishing hub in the south, the sentiment is unanimous: "No" to resuming EU negotiations, even though the vote pertains solely to the resumption of talks, not full EU membership. Gunnarsson, speaking from the deck of the Gullberg, a large trawler, expressed apprehension that joining the EU might necessitate surrendering some of the hard-won rights the nation fiercely defended over the past century.

The Cod Wars, a series of conflicts from 1958 to 1976, saw Iceland and Britain clashing over fish stocks, employing tactics such as ramming, net destruction, and cannon fire. The profound impact of the cod fishery on Iceland's wealth, accounting for nearly 40% of its goods exports, is undeniable. The sector boasts sustainable stock management, supporting numerous coastal communities, and thrives without the state subsidies prevalent in some European fleets.

However, concerns loom large over Iceland's control over annual quotas and foreign investment in the fishing industry. The government has pledged to retain "full control of our fisheries and governance" in any EU negotiations, insisting on maintaining control over quotas and restrictions on foreign investment. Foreign Minister Thorgerdur Katrin Gunnarsdottir conveyed this stance to the EU, anticipating a positive reception.

Brussels, home to an optimistic Commissioner Marta Kos, believes creative solutions can be devised. Still, doubts linger: would Iceland be granted an exemption on fisheries? Iceland's industry professionals are deeply skeptical. Director of Fisheries Iceland, Heidrun Lind Marteinsdottir, expressed cautious optimism, acknowledging the sector's historical significance while expressing uncertainty about non-negotiable terms. Recent surveys indicate that 90% of Icelandic fishing sector companies oppose EU membership.