There are several important reasons why Norway has not joined the European Union. The Scandinavian country has applied twice to join the community, but has failed in its bid due to two national referendums, held in 1972, and again in 1994.1 It is true that "history and geography had combined to make no a natural reaction for many Norwegians."2 Norway is a nation which has been dominated by foreign powers for centuries, and holds its independence as of primary importance. Thus, the Norwegian people have shown to be very defensive in such matters. Further, Norway's geographical position at the northern extreme of Europe has had a large impact on their reluctance to join the European Economic Community (EEC). The Norwegians have always been in closer contact with the other Scandinavian countries and Great Britain, and as such have been more likely to cooperate with those nations as opposed to continental Europe. Historical and geographical reasons have not been the only factors, however, which led Norway to oppose membership. Issues such as North Sea oil, the fishing industry and the incapability of the Norwegian government to present the EEC debate effectively have all played a role. As the EU has expanded and more nations have become members, Norway has twice bidded to join and twice failed in national referendums; choosing to remain outside of the European Union.
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