The European Commission is prepared to offer Iceland exemptions from EU fisheries rules as part of accession negotiations, according to remarks by the bloc’s fisheries commissioner.
Costas Kadis said the EU is willing to discuss flexibility on fisheries policy during the application process. The move is aimed at speeding up Iceland’s potential path towards membership.
The comments come ahead of a planned referendum in Iceland in August on whether to continue accession negotiations with the European Union.
Flexibility on fisheries policy
Kadis said the EU could grant Iceland exemptions from its Common Fisheries Policy. He confirmed that flexibility would be part of formal discussions if negotiations move forward.
He added that long-standing disputes, including the sharing of joint fish stocks, could be resolved through negotiation.
“[There is] definitely room for flexibility,” Kadis said, adding: “We can find solutions on issues that are a challenge, such as sharing arrangements on shared fish stocks.”
The commissioner also suggested that a more flexible fisheries framework could make EU membership more attractive to other countries, including Norway.
Fisheries remain a key obstacle
Fisheries policy remains one of the most sensitive issues in Iceland’s relationship with the EU. Membership is controversial, largely due to concerns about control over fishing resources.
The EU’s fisheries system has also faced criticism from within the bloc. A joint letter from 12 member states warned that the policy has become too complex and difficult to manage in daily operations.
One unnamed diplomat described the policy as outdated and overly complicated.
Kadis said reforms are planned. He stated that the policy will be simplified and modernised, with a stronger focus on reducing carbon emissions in the fisheries sector.
Geopolitics driving renewed interest
The EU’s willingness to show flexibility comes amid broader geopolitical changes. The bloc is seeking closer ties with Arctic countries and is reassessing its security and defence strategy.
Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and increased strategic interest in Greenland have been cited as key factors behind this shift.
Political scientist Vilborg Ása Guðjónsdóttir said the commissioner’s remarks signal a change in tone from the EU. She suggested that Iceland’s position may be stronger due to recent international developments.
However, she also noted that it remains unclear whether any tailored solutions would be acceptable to Icelandic voters.
Separately, EU enlargement commissioner Marta Kos has said that each accession process is unique and must reflect the specific characteristics of the applicant country, including its fisheries sector.
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