EU Membership and Visa-Free Travel: Debunking Misconceptions

The question about why Remainers are not pushing for non-European developed countries to join the EU is often a source of confusion. This article aims to clear up these misconceptions by providing context and insight into the EU’s structure, membership criteria, and the true importance of visa-free travel.

EU’s Structure and Membership

The European Union (EU) is a democratic organization comprising 27 member states currently (as of the time of writing). The EU operates on the principles of democracy, and its membership is strictly regulated by established criteria, making it an organization of democratic nations focusing on cooperation and integration within Europe. Contrary to the popular impression, the EU is not a body that easily allows membership to non-European countries, regardless of their economic or developmental status.

Why EU Membership is Not Open to All Countries

It is important to understand why the EU restricts membership to European countries. The EU's founding mission is to promote peace, prosperity, and solidarity among European nations. Admitting non-European countries, no matter how developed, would fundamentally alter the EU's identity and purpose. The EU is a union of states that share a common history, culture, and political philosophy, which are essential for the union to function effectively.

The Nature of the 'Random Rule'

Visa-free travel is indeed a significant benefit, but it applies primarily within the EU. The visa-free travel agreements between the EU and non-EU countries, such as Schengen visa arrangements, are separate from EU membership. These agreements are designed to facilitate travel for tourism, business, and other legitimate reasons. The requirement for EU membership to be European is not a random rule but a necessary condition to preserve the unique nature of the union.

The Remainers’ Perspective and the Role of Visa-Free Travel

Remainers support the EU for various reasons, including economic benefits, social exchanges, and cultural ties. Visa-free travel is an important aspect of this support, but it is also a privilege that is available to citizens of many countries outside the EU. For example, the 127 countries that German citizens can visit visa-free are not part of the EU. Similarly, 39 countries allow German citizens to enter and get a visa upon arrival. These numbers highlight that even without EU membership, citizens still have significant mobility benefits.

The Importance of Cheap Labour for the UK

It is also worth noting that the UK has historically relied on workforce mobility within Europe to fuel its economy. This practice did not change much until Brexit, where the UK and the EU struck a new agreement to manage the movement of people, goods, and services. Tony Blair's deal with the Confederation of British Industry (CBI) to bring in the minimum wage was part of this broader context. The UK’s relationship with the EU and its member states has always been about balanced agreements that benefit both parties.

Visa-free travel and the EU's membership criteria are complex issues that reflect the EU's commitment to its founding principles. The idea of the EU admitting non-European countries, while not entirely without merit, would require significant changes to the union's structure and priorities. The importance of maintaining the integrity of the EU as a democratic organization focused on European cooperation and integration cannot be overstated.