Sun, 07 Jun 2026 Berlin 00:51 DE / UKR / EN

Norway Considers EU Membership Following Iceland’s Referendum

Norway may reignite the discussion on EU membership as Iceland plans a referendum on accession in August.

Norway Considers EU Membership Following Iceland’s Referendum
Photo: cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net

The forthcoming referendum in Iceland regarding EU accession presents Norway with an opportunity to place the discussion of EU membership back on the political agenda. Norway has previously voted against EU membership in two referendums but is a member of the European Economic Area (EEA).

Trine Lise Sundnes, a lawmaker from the Labour Party, expressed optimism about the potential opportunities arising from the referendum in Iceland. Pro-EU activists in Norway view this as a chance to revive the membership debate.

Over 90% of EU laws are already applicable in Norway through the EEA Agreement, which could strengthen the argument for EU membership, as many existing regulations are already implemented in Norway.

However, the discussion surrounding EU membership remains complex, as Norwegians have previously indicated concerns regarding sovereignty and national control.