‘Forward Iceland’ Movement Holds Founding Meeting Against EU Membership

A new movement called "Forward Iceland" held its founding meeting yesterday, drawing approximately 800 attendees of all ages who oppose the country's accession to the European Union. The event took place at the Independence Hall on Austurvöllur. Speakers included physician Björn Zoëga, lawyer Lára Herborg Ólafsdóttir, and former President of Iceland Ólafur Ragnar Grímsson. Economist Halldór Benjamín Þorbergsson moderated the meeting. Young attendees expressed satisfaction with the event and its message. Jakob Lars Kristmannsson, a mathematics student at the University of Iceland, described the meeting as "fantastic" and praised Ólafur Ragnar's contribution. He emphasized that Icelanders themselves are the best advocates for their country's interests, stating, "No official in Brussels will have this as a guideline." Three law and economics students, Gunnhildur Sigurbjörnsdóttir, Unnur Björnsdóttir, and Andrea Alda Björnsdóttir, also shared their positive impressions. They appreciated the meeting's positive tone and its reminder of the importance of the upcoming national referendum on August 29. Andrea, a dentist, stressed the significance of retaining full decision-making power for Iceland, saying, "I feel it is mainly important that we have all decision-making power concerning our country and are not selling it to someone else." Gunnhildur and Unnur agreed with their friend's sentiment. Friends Jóhann Árni Sigmarsson, Fannar Logi Valdorf Sigurðsson, and Dagur Björgvin Jónsson also found the meeting impressive, with Jóhann Árni noting the clear presentations and Fannar Logi highlighting the passionate discussion. Fannar Logi expressed optimism for a "no" vote. Finance and business students Guðrún Lilja Zoëga and Sigurbjörn Zoëga reported a "great atmosphere" at the meeting, with enthusiastic reception from the attendees.

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It is mainly important that we have all decision-making power concerning our country and are not selling it to someone else.