Icelandic voters went to the polls on Saturday to decide whether the island nation should begin the process of joining the European Union. The referendum, the first of its kind in the country’s modern history, saw a turnout of 78 %, reflecting the high stakes of the decision. Pro‑EU campaigners highlighted benefits such as access to the single market, increased foreign investment, and stronger climate cooperation, while opponents warned of loss of sovereignty, fishing rights, and higher taxes. Preliminary results indicate a narrow margin, with 51 % voting in favor and 49 % against. The final count is expected later this week, after which the Icelandic government will announce the next steps.
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