Why is Iceland a member of the European Union?

Iceland is also a contributing member to the “social and economic cohesion” funds in the European Union and also the European Economic Area. Iceland is part of the active participant in the EU civilian peacekeeping missions as well as a consulting member on EU foreign matters and EU foreign policy.

Which EU countries are insular?

(Ireland, Malta and Cyprus are insular Member States.) After the withdrawal of the United Kingdom (UK) from the EU, the insular territories belonging to the UK are no longer part of the European Union islands. It is important to mention that there is a distinct category among islands that are Outermost Regions (ORs).

Is Iceland a member of the European Economic Area (EEA & Schengen)?

Iceland's membership of the European Economic Area (EEA) and Schengen provide Iceland with partial political, economic and societal shelter but it is secondary to formal membership of the EU. Iceland's membership of the EU is unlikely to materialize in the present domestic and European environment.

Why did Iceland join the EEA?

The EEA was established to give Iceland, among other European countries outside the EU, access to the EU market. Iceland's access to the EU market in respect of agriculture and fisheries is dealt with by separate bilateral agreements.