Iceland’s foreign minister has expressed concern that the country could face a “Brexit moment” in its upcoming EU referendum, citing risks from misinformation, foreign interference and artificial intelligence. With just over three months until voters decide whether to resume accession talks with the EU, the vote is drawing attention from Washington, Moscow and Brussels. Þorgerður Katrín Gunnarsdóttir accused domestic and external actors of “fearmongering” and spreading rhetoric drawn from the approach of Nigel Farage and Reform. She warned that Russia and other actors could target the referendum to sway public debate. The minister said foreign interference and misinformation might influence the outcome. “I am fearing that we will face a Brexit moment,” she told the Guardian, describing it as a dangerous path due to misleading claims made during the UK campaign. She pointed to disputed figures promoted by the leave side on UK contributions to the EU. Þorgerður said Brexit should serve as an example of how not to conduct a campaign, noting that many promises were never fulfilled. The coalition government, comprising the Social Democratic Alliance, the People’s party and her centre-right Liberal Reform party, announced in March that the referendum would be held on 29 August, earlier than the previously planned 2027 deadline. The decision was partly driven by US threats to acquire Greenland. Þorgerður noted that the international order supporting Iceland’s security is under pressure and that Greenland’s situation influenced the timing. She said old alliances are being tested and trade is being used as a political tool. Iceland’s ties with the US remain strong, she added, and EU membership would not conflict with that relationship. Voters will decide whether to restart accession talks rather than approve membership directly. A yes vote would lead to negotiations, followed by a second referendum on any final deal. Recent polls show 42 percent in favour of resuming talks and 39 percent opposed. Supporters highlight security benefits and European integration, while opponents raise concerns over fishing, agriculture and sovereignty. Fishing remains a sensitive issue given its economic and cultural importance. Þorgerður urged voters to rely on reliable sources. The prime minister has stated that foreign influence will not be accepted, and the president warned about AI-generated misleading content. An academic expert said Iceland lacks sufficient tools to counter unreliable information on the topic.
