After 3 years of division, the hour of Brexit (British Exit) has come, making the United Kingdom (UK) the first country to leave the European Union (EU). A departure that leads to a transition period that began on 1 January 2020 and is scheduled to last 31 December 2020.
Flags of the United Kingdom and Europe © Narvikk / iStock
It is merely the beginning of a potentially more volatile chapter of the turbulent divorce, in which political and business leaders jockey over what sort of Brexit will come to pass. Nevertheless, due to the short timeframe, a Brexit deal seems unlikely and complicated. However, it is imperative that the UK and Europe agree on their future relationship, which is vital for both. Why should not they cut their ties ? Here are three arguments that may make you change your mind about the importance of these negotiations.
Free movement of persons
With regard to freedom of movement, its end was one of the major arguments in favour of Brexit. Indeed, supporters of the “Leave” ensured that by leaving the EU, the UK could prevent European citizens from entering its territory. Today, some 3 million EU citizens settled in the UK, while 1,2 million British citizens live in an EU country. But under the Brexit agreement, the rules that are imposed apply to everyone. The ambition of the supporters of the “Leave” thus clashes with the interests of their compatriots residing in Spain, Ireland, France or Germany. Furthermore, the end of free movement could lead to a drop in enrolment in British and European universities. An agreement on the free movement of persons between the European Union and the United Kingdom is therefore crucial as it would determine the future status of Europeans who will settle and work in the UK, as well as Britons who will join the European continent.
The trade relationship
Freedom of movement also applies to goods, which means free trade in goods. In fact, Europe is Britain’s largest export market and its largest source of foreign economy. Thus, it is necessary to negotiate a deal governing future trade with the EU, which involves negotiations on future trade in manufactured goods and services, which make up the bulk of the UK economy. Failure of negotiations on future trade relations would have significant economic consequences for both sides.
Security
Their trade relationship must be assured as well as security. After the attacks that have struck the United Kingdom, particularly the one in London on 2 February 2020, it is vital that its collaboration with the European Union continues in the fight against crime and terrorism.
An anti-Brexit protester in front of the conference centre where the negotiations between the EU-27 and the British government are taking place in London, UK, on 9 November. © Toby Melville / Reuters
Despite the complexity of the links between the United Kingdom and the European Union, their cooperation in free movement to people, economy and security ; is essential. A No-deal Brexit, which would mean leaving the European block without an agreement, would have devastating consequences for both sides. Consequently, it is essential that they define their future relationship through the conclusion of a Brexit deal before the end of the transition period.
This article was produced as part of a final task in the Contemporary World English speciality teaching.