The commentary in VG highlights the advantages Norway has enjoyed outside the EU, emphasizing its strong economy, low unemployment, and control over key sectors like fisheries and agriculture. Author Hans Petter Sjøli raises the idea of two referendums regarding EU negotiations and membership, but the article critiques this as a tactic that could lower the threshold for eventual EU membership. Additionally, the commentary notes parallels with Iceland, where the government aims for a referendum to start negotiations with the EU.

Moreover, the article stresses that a potential EU membership would lead to a significant transfer of power from Norway’s parliament, the Storting, to the EU, which operates under a bureaucratic framework lacking direct accountability to voters. The EU commission, being un-elected, has the sole right to propose legislation, a shift that the author argues could undermine Norway’s democratic governance. As a result, the piece warns against the idea of holding multiple referendums, suggesting that they do not align with the reality of EU membership which comes with fixed terms and obligations.

In conclusion, the commentary reinforces the importance of maintaining Norway's independence in policy-making and cautions against the legalities and practicalities associated with EU membership. It calls for Norwegians to be vigilant about any moves towards EU accession disguised as negotiations, advocating that the current autonomy should be preserved rather than sacrificed for perceived economic or political advantages offered by the EU.