EU rules conflict with claim Iceland need not adapt laws

Mbl.is reports that Marta Kos, the European Union’s enlargement commissioner, has said Icelandic laws will not be adapted while membership negotiations are under way. That claim appears inconsistent with EU rules and the bloc’s negotiating position towards Iceland.

The EU’s negotiating position says progress in the talks will depend on Iceland’s ability to adopt and enforce EU regulations. Institutions, public administration and courts must also be adapted well before membership.

The same principle appears in EU information materials, which say applicant countries are expected to adopt EU legislation, prepare for its implementation and carry out reforms. The aim is for them to be fully prepared on their first day as members.

The same approach was taken during Iceland’s previous negotiations with the EU. Requirements included aligning legislation, establishing new information systems and building institutions. Statistics Iceland, the Directorate of Customs and other institutions began preparations, while the EU provided nearly EUR 30 million in IPA funding for Iceland’s adaptation.

After those negotiations collapsed, it was claimed that an agreement had been reached for all adaptation to wait until a membership treaty was concluded. No sources confirming such an agreement have been found, according to the report.