Kathmandu— Icelandic voters rejected a government proposal to begin accession talks with the European Union, according to results reported by public broadcaster RUV on Sunday. With nearly all ballots counted, the ‘No’ camp secured 52.5 percent of the vote compared to 47.5 percent for the ‘Yes’ camp. The outcome effectively ends any immediate prospect of Iceland joining the EU and follows a previous attempt at membership that stalled in 2013.

Referendum Results

The final tally, reported by RUV, showed a clear but narrow victory for opponents of EU accession. In one of Iceland’s six voting districts, only a small number of ballots remained to be counted when the results were confirmed. The ‘No’ campaign successfully argued against initiating negotiations with the European Union.

Government's 'Now or Never' Plea

Prime Minister Kristrun Frostadottir had presented the proposal as a critical juncture, suggesting that this referendum represented Iceland’s last chance to seriously consider EU membership for the foreseeable future. She stated in August that a ‘No’ vote would effectively close the door on any further discussion of joining the bloc.

Arguments For and Against Membership

Proponents of EU membership argued that joining could provide economic benefits, such as easing high interest rates and bolstering security amidst global instability—specifically referencing the war in Ukraine and rhetoric from former United States President Donald Trump regarding Greenland. Opponents countered that EU membership would jeopardize Iceland’s sovereignty and its control over valuable fishing resources.

Past Attempts at Accession

Iceland initially applied for EU membership in 2009, following a severe financial crisis that impacted the nation's economy. However, negotiations were halted in 2013 when a Eurosceptic government took power.

With the referendum concluded, Iceland appears set to maintain its current status outside of the European Union.

(With inputs from Al Jazeera)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.