The Europa Brexit Agreement: Understanding Its Impact on the European Union and the United Kingdom
The Brexit agreement between the European Union (EU) and the United Kingdom (UK) has been a highly contentious issue since it was first proposed back in 2016. After years of negotiations, the two sides finally came to an agreement on December 24, 2020, just a week before the UK officially left the EU on January 1, 2021.
The Europa Brexit agreement sets out the terms of the UK`s departure from the EU and establishes the framework for future relations between the two parties. It covers a wide range of issues, including trade, immigration, security, and financial cooperation, among others.
One of the most significant aspects of the Brexit agreement is the trade deal between the EU and the UK. The two sides agreed on a zero-tariff and zero-quota arrangement for goods traded between them, which means that there will be no additional taxes or restrictions on trade in goods. However, the deal does not cover services, which make up a significant portion of the UK economy.
The Brexit agreement also includes provisions on immigration, with the UK regaining control of its borders and ending freedom of movement for EU citizens. The deal allows for visa-free travel for short-term trips and permits UK citizens to live and work in the EU for up to 90 days without a visa.
On the security front, the agreement establishes a framework for cooperation between the UK and the EU on issues such as terrorism, cybercrime, and law enforcement. It also includes provisions on data protection and privacy.
Perhaps one of the most contentious issues in the Brexit negotiations was the financial settlement between the EU and the UK. The final agreement includes a settlement of around £39 billion ($52 billion) that the UK will pay to the EU over several years to cover its financial obligations during its membership period.
Overall, the Europa Brexit agreement has significant implications for both the EU and the UK. The UK`s departure from the EU represents a significant shift in the political and economic landscape of Europe, while the agreement itself sets the framework for future relations between the two parties. Only time will tell how the UK`s departure from the EU will impact trade, immigration, security, and other areas covered by the agreement, but it is clear that the Brexit agreement will have far-reaching consequences for both parties involved.