Iceland Votes on EU Membership Amid Close Polls

Iceland is set to hold a referendum on August 29 to decide whether to open accession talks with the European Union. The vote is expected to be close, with opinion polls showing a near dead heat between those who want Iceland to join the EU and opponents who want the country to remain independent.

Prime Minister Kristrun Frostadottir has framed the membership plan as a 'now or never' moment, warning that a 'no' vote would put all EU speculation aside. If Icelanders say 'yes', it would trigger two or more years of bargaining with Brussels followed by a second referendum, possibly in 2028, on whether to join the bloc.

Supporters of membership argue that it would help boost Iceland's economy and give the country a stronger voice in international trade and politics. They also point out that joining the EU customs union would make trading with other countries easier and more efficient.