On 24 February 2010, the European Commission issued its opinion recommending the opening of accession negotiations with Iceland following the country's application for membership of the European Union on 17 July 2009. It is now for the Council of the European Union to decide on the opening of accession negotiations with the country.

In its Opinion, the Commission analyses Iceland’s application on the basis of the country’s capacity to meet the political and economic criteria set by the Copenhagen European Council in 1993 which applicant countries must meet to become a member of the EU:

• Stability of institutions guaranteeing democracy, the rule of law, human rights and respect for and protection of minorities;
• The existence of a functioning market economy, as well as the capacity to cope with competitive pressure and market forces within the Union;
• The ability to take on the obligations of membership including adherence to the aims of political, economic and monetary union.

The Commission acknowledges Iceland's adherence to the common values of the Union, such as democracy, rule of law and respect for human rights. In addition to the present situation, it also looks at medium-term (three years) prospects and identifies key policy areas which will require particular attention in the event of Icelandic accession, in particular fisheries, agriculture and rural development, environment, free movement of capital and financial services.

As the basis of its opinion, the Commission sent a 350 page questionnaire on all EU-relevant policy areas to the Icelandic authorities. Based on full and detailed answers from Iceland and additional information from EU Member States, international organisations and local and international non-governmental organisations, the Commission has drawn up a thorough analysis of Iceland's current situation and medium-term prospects.

Background

Iceland applied for membership of the European Union on 17 July 2009. The European Parliament and national Parliaments were notified of this application. Subsequently, on 27 July, the Council of the European Union requested that the Commission submit its opinion on the application.

More information on the key findings of the Commission's Opinion on Iceland are available here