Relief and sorrow in Iceland after EU membership talks referendum fails

Iceland's citizens have voted in a close referendum to reject joining the European Union. Of the 82.5% of eligible voters who participated, 52.8% opposed the government's proposal to join the union, while 47.2% supported it. Iceland, an Arctic island with a population of 400,000, has debated EU membership for over a decade. The referendum followed a government push to reopen membership talks, which initially faced narrow expectations.

Prime Minister Kristrun Frostadottir framed membership as a shield against trade wars and Arctic rivalry, presenting it as a "now or never" moment. The government aimed to hold a press conference on Sunday, while Brussels officials hoped a favorable vote could ease scepticism toward EU enlargement and strengthen the bloc's position in Arctic security.

Iceland's high inflation rate of 8% and expensive mortgages were cited as reasons for the "no" campaign, which was led by opposition leader Gudrun Hafsteinsdottir. Despite some promises of flexibility from EU officials, many Icelander, like voter Ragnhildur Skarphedinsdottir, remained convinced that staying independent would lead to a bright future.