Switzerland, Norway and Iceland REFUSE to join the EU. Why?
Summary
TLDRThis video explores why Switzerland, Norway, and Iceland, despite their strong European ties, have chosen not to join the European Union. It delves into their historical attempts, economic concerns, and the desire to maintain national sovereignty and control over key industries like fisheries. The video also discusses their current agreements with the EU, such as the Schengen Area and the European Economic Area, and speculates on their likelihood of future EU membership, suggesting that while all enjoy close relations, joining is unlikely in the near future.
Takeaways
- đŞđş The European Union (EU) consists of 27 member states, but not all European countries are part of it.
- đď¸ Norway, Iceland, and Switzerland are three European countries that are not EU members despite their close ties to Europe.
- đłď¸ Norway has held two referendums on EU membership, in 1972 and 1994, both resulting in decisions to remain outside the EU.
- đ Norway's desire to maintain control over its fisheries is a significant factor in its reluctance to join the EU and its Common Fisheries Policy.
- đŽđ¸ Iceland applied for EU membership in 2009 but the process stalled in 2013, with concerns over fisheries and national sovereignty playing a role.
- đ¨đ Switzerland has never been an EU member and has a strong tradition of neutrality and direct democracy, which conflicts with the EU's decision-making process.
- đ¤ All three countries are part of the Schengen Area, allowing for passport-free travel but not automatically the right to work.
- đź Norway and Iceland are members of the European Economic Area (EEA), participating in the single market without full EU membership.
- đŞđŞ Switzerland accesses the single market through bilateral agreements with the EU, avoiding full membership while maintaining economic ties.
- đ¤ None of the three countries are likely to join the EU soon, as they all have close relationships with the EU and enjoy the benefits of cooperation without full membership.
Q & A
Why is the European Union sometimes mistakenly thought to include all of Europe?
-The European Union is often mistakenly thought to include all of Europe because its name suggests a connection to the entire continent. However, the EU only has 27 member states, and some European countries have chosen to remain outside of the Union.
Which three European countries are discussed in the script as not being part of the EU?
-The three European countries discussed are Switzerland, Norway, and Iceland.
What are the main reasons Norway has not joined the EU?
-Norway has not joined the EU mainly due to concerns over the Common Fisheries Policy, which could impact its fisheries sector, and the desire to maintain control over its vast natural resources like oil and gas. Additionally, there are concerns about national sovereignty and the potential impact on the country's autonomy.
Why did Iceland's application to join the EU stall?
-Iceland's application to join the EU stalled due to a change in government in 2013, which shifted the country's direction towards EU accession. Concerns about the Common Fisheries Policy and maintaining national sovereignty also played a role.
What is Switzerland's stance on joining the EU, and why?
-Switzerland has traditionally shown limited interest in joining the EU. The Swiss electorate rejected an application to join the European Economic Area in a 1992 referendum, and a 2018 survey found that only 3% considered joining the EU a possibility. Reasons include a commitment to neutrality, unique political and economic circumstances, and a system of direct democracy that conflicts with ceding decision-making power to Brussels.
How do the three countries maintain close ties with the EU without being members?
-All three countries are part of the Schengen Area, and Iceland and Norway are members of the European Economic Area (EEA), which allows them to participate in the single market. Switzerland accesses parts of the single market through bilateral agreements with the EU. All three, along with Liechtenstein, are members of the European Free Trade Association (EFTA).
What is the European Economic Area (EEA), and why is it significant for Iceland and Norway?
-The European Economic Area (EEA) is an agreement that allows its members, including Iceland and Norway, to participate in the single market. This means they have to contribute to the EU budget and adopt certain EU laws without having direct representation in the European Parliament. It is significant as it allows them economic integration without full EU membership.
What is the European Free Trade Association (EFTA), and which of the discussed countries are members?
-The European Free Trade Association (EFTA) is an organization that promotes free trade and economic integration among its members and with other countries. Switzerland, Norway, Liechtenstein, and Iceland are the current members of EFTA among the discussed countries.
What are the potential impacts of EU membership on a country's control over its own currency?
-EU membership could impact a country's control over its own currency as it may need to adopt the euro, which is the official currency of most EU member states. This could limit the country's monetary policy autonomy.
Which of the three countries is considered the most likely to join the EU in the future, and why?
-Iceland is considered the most likely to join the EU among the three countries. It is already a part of the EEA, has close ties to the EU, and the economic stability offered by the Union was recognized during the 2009 recession. Additionally, geopolitical events like Russia's invasion of Ukraine have influenced public sentiment towards solidarity with European neighbors.
Outlines
đ Geographical Overview of Non-EU European Countries
This paragraph introduces three European countries that are not part of the European Union (EU) despite their close ties to Europe: Switzerland, Norway, and Iceland. It provides a geographical overview of each country, highlighting their unique locations and relationships with EU member states. Norway is situated at the top of the Scandinavian Peninsula with access to significant water bodies and borders EU members Finland and Sweden. Iceland, the most isolated, is far from the nearest EU country, Ireland, and is not often included in European maps. Switzerland, known for its central European location, is surrounded by EU countries like France, Germany, Italy, and Austria. The paragraph sets the stage for exploring each country's relationship with the EU and the reasons behind their decision not to join.
đ Reasons and Relationships with the EU
This paragraph delves into the reasons why Switzerland, Norway, and Iceland have chosen not to join the EU, despite their European identities. It discusses Norway's historical attempts to join, which were influenced by the UK's application and the eventual negative outcome of referendums held in 1972 and 1994. Key concerns for Norway include maintaining control over its fisheries and natural resources, as well as national sovereignty. Iceland's application to join the EU in 2009 was halted due to a change in government and concerns over fisheries and national sovereignty. Switzerland has shown little interest in joining the EU, with a 1992 referendum rejecting the idea of joining the European Economic Area. The Swiss value their direct democracy and have secured many benefits of the single market through bilateral agreements without full membership. The paragraph also outlines the current agreements these countries have with the EU, such as being part of the Schengen Area and the European Free Trade Association (EFTA), and speculates on their likelihood of joining the EU in the future, suggesting that while it's possible for Iceland, it's unlikely for Switzerland and Norway in the near term.
Mindmap
Keywords
đĄEuropean Union (EU)
đĄSchengen Area
đĄCommon Fisheries Policy (CFP)
đĄEuropean Economic Area (EEA)
đĄEuropean Free Trade Association (EFTA)
đĄNational Sovereignty
đĄReferendum
đĄBilateral Agreements
đĄNeutrality
đĄDirect Democracy
Highlights
The European Union has 27 member states, but not all European countries are part of it.
Switzerland, Norway, and Iceland are three European countries that are not part of the EU.
Norway's geographical position at the top of the Scandinavian Peninsula with access to the North Sea and the Arctic Circle.
Iceland is the most isolated European nation, with Ireland as its closest EU neighbor over 1,400 kilometers away.
Switzerland is centrally located in Europe, surrounded by EU member states like France, Germany, Italy, and Austria.
Norway has held two referendums, both resulting in decisions against joining the EU.
Fisheries are a significant economic sector for Norway, and joining the EU would require adherence to the Common Fisheries Policy.
Norway's oil and gas resources are a concern for some who fear EU membership could impact their management.
National sovereignty is a concern for Norwegians, with many cautious about ceding control to the EU.
Iceland applied for EU membership in 2009 following a financial crisis but later stalled due to a change in government.
Iceland's fishing industry, like Norway's, is a key concern regarding potential disruptions under the EU's policy.
Switzerland has shown little interest in EU membership, with only 3% considering it a possibility in a 2018 survey.
Switzerland's direct democracy system makes ceding decision-making power to Brussels problematic.
Switzerland has bilateral agreements with the EU, allowing for economic collaboration while preserving autonomy.
All three countries are part of the Schengen Area, facilitating passport-free travel.
Iceland and Norway are members of the European Economic Area, participating in the single market.
Switzerland accesses the single market through bilateral agreements, not full EU membership.
The three countries, along with Liechtenstein, are part of the European Free Trade Association (EFTA).
None of the three countries are expected to join the EU soon, with Switzerland being the least likely.
Iceland might be the most likely to join the EU of the three, given its close ties and past economic considerations.
Transcripts
When someone says âEUâ, many first think of Europe. But this isnât entirely accurate! Â
The European Union has only twenty-seven member states, and even though some European countries Â
have long, rich histories with their EU cousins, theyâve decided to remain Â
outside of the Union. This is the case of Switzerland, Norway, and Iceland. But why Â
are these three countries, so closely linked to a shared European identity, not part of the EU?
As always, letâs take a look at where these three countries are on the map.
First up is Norway. This Nordic nation sits right at the top of the Scandinavian Peninsula, Â
with direct access to the North Sea, the Arctic Circle, Â
and the mouth of the Baltic Sea. Norway borders two EU members - Finland and Sweden.
Second is Iceland. Iceland is by far the most isolated of the European nations, Â
with many map makers sadly forgetting to include it in their sketches of the Â
continent. The closest EU neighbour is Ireland, over 1,400 kilometres away.
Last but not least is Switzerland. This is the country that many forget isnât part of the EU, Â
as it sits at the heart of the continent and is surrounded by central EU states - France, Â
Germany, Italy, and Austria all share a border with this Alpine haven.
Letâs take a look at each oneâs relationship with the Union and why theyâve decided not to join.
Norway has made attempts to join the EU on two notable occasions. Initially, the country applied Â
to join what was then called the European Economic Community (EEC) in 1962. However, Â
when France, under President Charles de Gaulle, vetoed the UK's application to join the EEC in Â
1963 and 1967, Norway's bid was indirectly affected. Since Norway's application was Â
contingent on UK membership, along with the applications of Denmark and Ireland, Â
Norway decided to suspend its application both times. Eventually, negotiations successfully Â
concluded in 1972, leading to a referendum where the Norwegian people voted against Â
joining. A subsequent referendum in 1994 also saw Norwegians voting against EU membership, Â
albeit by a closer margin. Since then, Norway has not actively pursued full membership.
Several factors contribute to Norway's hesitation to join the EU: The big problem Â
is Fish. Norway places significant emphasis on maintaining control over its fisheries sector, Â
which is a vital part of its economy. If Norway were to join the EU, it would have to follow Â
the EU's Common Fisheries Policy (CFP). This policy would allow other EU countries to fish Â
in Norwegian waters, albeit with strict rules. Additionally, Norway would be subject to the Â
EUâs Total Allowable Catches system, designed for the sustainable management of fish stocks, Â
which might differ from Norway's preferred management practices.
There are also economic concerns beyond fisheries: Norway's vast natural resources, Â
especially oil and gas, play a pivotal role in its economy. Some Norwegians Â
are concerned that EU membership might impact the country's autonomy over these resources.
Then there is National Sovereignty: Many Norwegians are cautious about Â
ceding aspects of their sovereignty to Brussels and the broader EU administrative structure.
So what about Iceland?
Iceland applied to join the EU in 2009, in the aftermath of the financial crisis, Â
with many believing that membership might offer greater economic stability. However, Â
with a change in government in 2013, Â
the country's direction toward EU accession shifted, and the application process stalled.
Central to Iceland's hesitation, similar to Norway, is the desire to protect its vital fishing Â
industry from potential disruptions under the EU's Common Fisheries Policy. Beyond fisheries, Â
concerns about maintaining national sovereignty, potential impacts on the Â
small but protected agricultural sector, and the advantages of having control over Â
their own currency have also influenced the debate. While Icelanders have never voted in Â
a referendum specifically on EU membership, public sentiment has shifted over time, Â
influenced by both domestic and international events, including Russia's invasion of Ukraine.
Finally, we come to Switzerland.
The Swiss people have traditionally shown limited interest in joining the EU. In the early 1990s, Â
the government did pursue an application to join Â
the European Economic Area (EEA) â a stepping stone to EU membership â but Â
after a rejection by the Swiss electorate in a 1992 referendum, this effort was suspended.
In fact, in 2018, a survey found that only 3% even considered joining the EU a possibility. This Â
reluctance stems not just from their commitment to neutrality but also from their unique political Â
and economic circumstances. Switzerland's system of direct democracy, where key decisions are often Â
put to public referendums, makes ceding any decision-making power to Brussels problematic.
Over the years, Switzerland has negotiated a series of bilateral agreements with the EU, Â
granting them many of the benefits of the single market without the perceived drawbacks Â
of full membership. These agreements, for many in Switzerland, represent the 'best of both worlds.' Â
They allow for economic collaboration while preserving Swiss autonomy. For example, the Â
Swiss cherish their financial autonomy, especially given the country's status as a global banking and Â
financial hub. Thus, concerns about EU regulations potentially affecting this sector play a role.
And no, unlike some of their Nordic neighbours, the Swiss reservations Â
aren't about protecting a fishing industry. After all, fish are pretty safe in the Alps!
But what about now? What agreements do these countries have with the EU in the modern day?
None of the three countries are technically part of the EU, Â
but they're closely tied in various ways. All three countries are part of the Schengen Area, Â
facilitating passport-free travel across borders. However, Â
this doesn't automatically grant the right to work; additional permissions might be required.
Both Iceland and Norway are members of the European Economic Area (EEA), which allows Â
them to participate in the single market. This means they have to contribute to the EU budget, Â
adopt certain EU laws without having direct representation in the European Parliament, Â
and are exempt from some EU policies â notably in areas such as fishing.
Switzerland, on the other hand, accesses parts of Â
the single market through a series of bilateral agreements with the EU.
All three, along with Liechtenstein, are members of the European Free Trade Association (EFTA). Â
Founded in 1960 as an alternative to the then European Economic Community, Â
which later evolved into the EU, the EFTA aimed to promote free trade and economic integration.
The original members included Denmark, Norway, Switzerland, Sweden, Austria, Â
the UK, and later, Portugal joined the fold. Today, only four members remain: Â
Switzerland, Norway, Liechtenstein, and Iceland.
EFTA promotes free trade among its members and with other countries, and its members cooperate Â
closely with the EU, ensuring smooth trade and collaboration across Europe.
So, the big question is:Â Â
which one of these three countries is most likely to join the European Union?
We donât believe any of these three countries will join the EU any time soon, but we know for Â
sure that Switzerland isnât keen on the idea at all. Public opinion on joining is incredibly low, Â
and the countryâs dedication to neutrality is simply too fierce. It would take a string Â
of massive geopolitical events to sway the Swiss people over to a pro-EU side.
Overall, Iceland is probably the most likely to join of the three. As itâs already a part Â
of the EEA, it has close ties to the EU, and a decisive referendum on joining has never been Â
held. The 2009 recession also showed the Icelandic people the value the EUâs economic Union offered, Â
and Russiaâs invasion of Ukraine has many looking to their European neighbours for solidarity.
Still, we see no big reason for any of these countries to join at the moment! Â
They all enjoy close relations with the EU, take part in many of its agreements, Â
and contribute in their own way to the European project. The European Union Â
has bigger fish to fry, and these three are already strong allies as it stands.
Do you think these countries should join the EU? Or would you rather they stay outside Â
for now? Let us know your thoughts in the comments! If you enjoy short and Â
informative videos about the EU, then please subscribe and like the video. Until next time.
Browse More Related Video
Global Economy and Market Integration Explained | The Contemporary World (Lecture Series)
The European Union - Summary on a Map
Why Does the European Union Exist?
The Fall of Communism: Crash Course European History #47
ULTRADERECHA EN EUROPA: ÂżQUĂ SABEMOS de ELLA? ÂżDĂNDE GOBIERNA? ÂżES UNA AMENAZA? | RTVE Noticias
What is the European Union?
5.0 / 5 (0 votes)