The reasons why Norway, Switzerland or Iceland (although directly or at least bordering on Europe) are not members of the EU are complex. These are often very individual reasons that make membership unattractive for the countries in question. In the following subsections, the respective reasons for Norway, Switzerland and Iceland will be explained in detail.
Why is Norway not in the EU? Explanation, reasons
Norway has made a conscious decision not to join the EU, even though it has close geographical and economic ties with Europe. One of the main reasons is the fear of losing sovereignty and control over national resources, especially with regard to the fishing industry, which is of great importance to Norway. This is because the EU would set a fishing quota and Norway does not want that.
In addition, many Norwegians are put off by the strict EU rules and regulations, as they fear that these could affect their economy and social policies. Furthermore, as a non-member, Norway enjoys access to the European single market through the European Economic Area Agreement (EEA), but without the political obligations of EU membership.
Why is Switzerland not in the EU? Explanation, reasons
Switzerland held a referendum in 1992. The aim was to vote on whether Switzerland should join the European Economic Area (EEA). There was a wafer-thin majority in favor of „no“, 50.3 percent. 49.7 percent of voters voted „yes“. The outcome of this election determined and continues to determine Switzerland’s European policy.
Switzerland, a country with a long tradition of neutrality, decided against EU membership for various reasons. One of the most important reasons is the preservation of its independence and direct democracy. The Swiss value their federal structure and the system of direct democracy, in which citizens can make important decisions through referendums.
EU membership would mean that Switzerland would have to cede part of its sovereignty to the EU, which many Swiss consider unacceptable. In addition, Switzerland benefits economically from access to the EU single market through bilateral agreements, but without being an EU member.
Why is Iceland not in the EU? Explanation, reasons
Iceland has also decided not to join the EU, although it has been discussed for a long time. One of the main reasons is the fishing industry, which plays an important role in the Icelandic economy. Fears that EU regulations (through fishing quotas) could affect control over its fishing resources have increased opposition to EU membership.
In addition, the 2008 financial crisis has shaken Icelanders‘ confidence in European institutions and raised skepticism about closer ties with the EU. Although Iceland is a member of the European Economic Area (EEA) and therefore has access to the EU single market, the country has decided to maintain its independence and sovereignty and not become a member of the EU.
Critical view
A critical look at the decisions of Norway, Switzerland and Iceland not to join the EU raises questions about the long-term effects. While these countries want to protect their sovereignty and specific national interests, they could benefit in the long term from the political and economic advantages of EU membership. Participation in the EU would give them a stronger voice on the international stage and access to the resources of the world’s largest single market.
In addition, they could benefit from EU funds and programs designed to promote growth and development in member countries. However, the decision to remain outside the EU can also be interpreted as an expression of a deeper democratic desire for self-determination and national identity.
A look at the political map of Europe reveals a notable absence: Norway, Switzerland and Iceland, three economically prosperous and politically stable countries that have not joined the European Union (EU) despite their geographical proximity. Their decision to remain outside the EU framework raises questions and sheds light on the diversity of the European identity and political landscape. While many of their neighbors are members of the EU and reap the benefits of integration, these countries have deliberately chosen a different path. Their reasons are complex and range from historical experiences and economic autonomy to national identity and direct democracy.
This article will discuss the reasons behind the respective decisions. It also aims to take a critical view.
Explanation of the term „EU“
The abbreviation „EU“ stands for the „European Union“, which is a political and economic organization of 27 European countries. The EU was founded with the aim of promoting peace, stability and economic prosperity in Europe. It offers its members a platform for political cooperation, economic integration and joint policy-making in various areas, including trade, environmental protection, security and human rights.
The EU has a complex institutional structure consisting of various institutions such as the European Commission, the European Parliament and the European Council. Its most important feature is the internal market, which enables the free movement of goods, services, capital and people within the EU area. The EU is a significant political and economic power on a global level and plays a key role in shaping Europe’s development.
Which countries are currently in the „EU“?
There are currently 27 countries in the European Union (EU). These are the following countries (including their respective year of accession):
- Belgium (1952)
- Bulgaria (2007)
Denmark (1973) - Germany (1952)
- Estonia (2004)
- Finland (1995)
- France (1952)
- Greece (1981)
- Ireland (1973)
- Italy (1952)
- Croatia (2013)
- Latvia (2004)
- Lithuania (2004)
- Luxembourg (1952)
- Malta (2004)
- Netherlands (1952)
- Austria (1995)
- Poland (2004)
- Portugal (1986)
- Romania (2007)
- Sweden (1995)
- Slovakia (2004)
- Slovenia (2004)
- Spain (1986)
- Czech Republic (2004)
- Hungary (2004)
- Cyprus (2004)
The UK was a founding member of the EU, but left in 2020.
Conclusion on „Why are Norway, Switzerland and Iceland not in the EU?“ and other facts
Overall, the decisions of Norway, Switzerland and Iceland not to join the EU show the diversity of the European political landscape and the importance of national sovereignty and identity. While these countries are closely linked to Europe economically and geographically, they have consciously chosen an independent political direction. Their decisions reflect individual priorities and values, ranging from the preservation of national independence to the protection of specific economic interests.
In addition to the failure of Norway, Switzerland and Iceland to join the EU, there are other curiosities to be observed in Europe. For example, the Principality of Liechtenstein, located between Switzerland and Austria, has neither its own army nor its own currency (but shares the Swiss franc with Switzerland). Monaco, on the other hand, is the second smallest state in the world after the Vatican, but also one of the wealthiest.