Icelanders react as the EU referendum results come in
Icelanders react as voters reject a proposal to restart European Union accession talks in a closely contested referendum.
Updated: 30/08/2026 - 13:00 GMT+2
Icelanders react as voters reject a proposal to restart European Union accession talks in a closely contested referendum.
Icelanders gathered in Reykjavik to follow the results of a referendum on whether to restart European Union accession talks, with both supporters and opponents celebrating as the vote count progressed.
Footage shows “Yes” campaign supporters cheering and dancing as early results gave them an initial lead. Foreign Minister Thorgerður Katrín Gunnarsdóttir was also seen greeting supporters.
On the opposing side, “No” campaign supporters gathered to watch the results, cheering and celebrating as the final outcome became clearer.
The proposal was ultimately rejected, with 52.8% voting against restarting EU negotiations and 47.2% in favour, according to Iceland's national broadcaster RUV. Reykjavik was the only area where a majority backed the proposal.