Iceland's Prime Minister Kristrún Frostadóttir has taken a bold stance by calling for a national referendum on EU membership negotiations, proposing this debate within the year. Despite the potential for increased polarization in Icelandic society, she believes that the current political climate presents a unique opportunity that cannot be ignored. Frostadóttir's call to action stands in stark contrast to her Norwegian counterpart, Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre, who has publicly rejected the idea of reopening the EU membership discussion in Norway.

Frostadóttir emphasizes the necessity of informed discourse around the issue, asserting that it’s vital to take into account the concerns of low-income groups regarding EU membership. She is confident that the Icelandic population possesses the judgment required to make informed decisions on such critical matters. The Prime Minister's proactive approach aims to engage citizens in a democratic debate that could have lasting implications for Iceland's relationship with the EU and its future governance.

Meanwhile, Støre is focused on reinforcing the EEA cooperation, prioritizing stability and continuity over the controversial and potentially divisive EU membership discussions. The contrasting perspectives of these two leaders highlight the divergent political landscapes of Norway and Iceland regarding EU membership, as both nations navigate their respective paths in Europe, each influenced by its unique history and current public sentiment.