Gibraltar’s Post-Brexit Status: An Update on Negotiations and Future Prospects
In February 2020 and beyond, the status of Gibraltar remains a topic of ongoing negotiations and scrutiny. Gibraltar, a self-governing overseas territory with the right to self-determination, has unequivocally chosen to remain as it is. Therefore, the United Kingdom (UK) is engaged in negotiations with Gibraltar's authority regarding its foreign policy, but not in any actual negotiation regarding Gibraltar's status.
Current Status and Commitments
The UK’s exit from the European Union (EU) has led to a temporary standstill transition period, which is part of the Brexit withdrawal agreement. This transition period includes the Protocol on Gibraltar, which mandates close cooperation between Spain and the UK on the implementation of citizens’ rights provisions and ensures administrative cooperation in several policy areas. Despite these commitments, the ultimate future trading relationship between Gibraltar and the EU remains to be agreed upon. The talks are strictly separate from the broader negotiations between the UK and the EU on the UK's future relationship with the EU.
Negotiations and Veto Mechanism
Discussions on Gibraltar's status will continue under the auspices of the UK government and the EU's European Commission. However, the approval of the Spanish government is necessary to prevent any deal from being implemented, thus providing a veto mechanism. This process highlights the importance of regional interests and illustrates the complexities of post-Brexit negotiations.
Technical Details of the Transition Period
Upon the UK’s formal withdrawal from the EU on January 31, 2020, both parties entered into a transitional arrangement. This arrangement kept the social and trade arrangements in place until December 31, 2020, effectively maintaining the status quo. Gibraltar was also part of this transitional period, ensuring continuity.
As of January 2021, an agreement was reached for Gibraltar’s post-Brexit future, marking a significant step forward in this ongoing process.
National Commitment to Gibraltar
The UK has made it clear that it has no intention of giving up Gibraltar. This stance reflects the UK's commitment to uphold the rights and interests of its citizens in Gibraltar. The determination to maintain the status quo underscores the significance of Gibraltar to the UK and the challenges posed by the broader context of Brexit negotiations.
For more information on Gibraltar's post-Brexit status and the ongoing negotiations, please refer to the latest updates from the UK government and the European Commission.
Thank you for your attention to this matter.
Eli Litvak