The Case for Norway and Iceland Joining the European Union

In a rapidly changing global landscape, the call for Norway and Iceland to join the European Union (EU) has gained traction. With the shifting geopolitical dynamics, particularly the United States' evolving role in Europe, experts argue that both nations should reconsider their positions and expedite their accession.

Geopolitical Context

Daniel Hegedüs, writing from Berlin, emphasizes the need for a strategic response to heightened geopolitical risks stemming from the US's assertive foreign policy and Russia's increasing presence in the Arctic. The current climate, shaped by past events such as Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, has pushed nations like Finland and Sweden to seek NATO membership, highlighting the urgency for Norway and Iceland to reconsider their non-EU status.

The article points out that both nations face potential threats to their sovereignty, particularly regarding territorial claims and military aggression. The geopolitical landscape around the Arctic has become increasingly contested, urging smaller democracies to seek stronger ties within collective structures like the EU.

EU Integration and Historical Context

Both Norway and Iceland are already significantly integrated into the EU’s economic frameworks through the European Economic Area (EEA) and the Schengen Area. Historically, Norway has withdrawn from EU membership referenda in 1972 and 1994. Iceland applied for EU membership in 2009 but suspended negotiations in 2015. However, the current geopolitical climate has prompted Iceland’s governing Social Democratic Alliance to propose a referendum by 2027 to resume EU discussions.

Experts suggest that with political will, both countries could join the EU within two to three years, a timeframe aided by their existing compliance with EU regulations.

Addressing Controversies and Challenges

The prospect of Nordic countries joining the EU raises concerns about possible tensions with other candidate countries, especially those in the Western Balkans. An expedited accession for Norway and Iceland may cause apprehension but could, in fact, reinvigorate the EU enlargement process.

Enhancing the EU’s geopolitical weight could address concerns related to security and defense, especially in relation to NATO's mutual defense obligations. Proposals such as amending the EU's defense clauses to include responses to cyber and hybrid threats have been suggested to bolster the EU's collective security stance.

A Win-Win Situation

Advocates for accession envision this move as mutually beneficial. Norway and Iceland, entering as net contributors already financially integrated via the EEA, would enhance the EU's financial capacity. Additionally, their accession could help counteract the perceived eastward shift in the EU's center of power, a phenomenon observed since 2004. Moreover, Nordic integration into the EU could stimulate momentum for other candidate countries by showcasing the potential benefits of EU membership, thereby encouraging them to meet the necessary criteria for accession.

Conclusion

As global power dynamics shift, the call for Norway and Iceland to join the EU presents a timely opportunity for both nations. With their existing alignment to EU standards, swift accession could fortify the Union and counterbalance external pressures, thereby enhancing collective security for all member states. The ongoing discussions within Norway and Iceland regarding EU membership reflect a broader acknowledgment of the need for strategic unity in the face of emerging challenges.