Is Rejoining the European Union Possible for the UK?

The European Union (EU) is an intergovernmental organization that provides a framework for its member states to cooperate in various fields, including economic, social, and political matters. While the UK has officially left the EU, you might wonder if rejoining the EU is a possibility. This article will explore the legal and practical aspects of such a rejoining process.

Understanding EU Entry and Exit Mechanisms

The EU has well-established procedures for both entering and exiting its membership. Article 50 of the Treaty on European Union outlines the process for a member state to leave the EU, while the principle of self-determination implies that a country can apply to join the EU regardless of its previous membership status.

Historical Context: Could the UK Rejoin the EU?

While the UK has left the EU, there is a debate regarding whether it ever truly joined the EU in the first place. The European Economic Community (EEC) and the EU are different entities, and the legal basis of the UK's initial entry is a matter of historical and legal interpretation.

Despite these uncertainties, the EU is a democratic and flexible organization that allows countries to leave and, in theory, to reapply for membership. However, whether the UK would ever want to rejoin the EU is a different matter entirely, given the sensitive nature of the Brexit process and the significant changes brought about by leaving the EU.

The Current Standpoint of the UK

The UK has not formally re-applied to join the EU. There have been no official announcements or proposals for the UK to rejoin. Critics argue that the process would be extremely fast, almost akin to squeezing toothpaste back into its tube. However, the reality is more complex.

Key Benefits of Leaving the EU

Controlling Migration: One of the most significant benefits of leaving the EU is the ability to control migration. The UK no longer faces the influx of Eastern Europeans seeking better opportunities, reducing the strain on the UK's job market, the benefits system, and housing stock. From 2010 to 2020, an average of 350,000 Eastern Europeans entered the UK annually; this flow has been halted.

Financial Independence: The UK was a major contributor to the EU budget, paying significantly more than it received back. By leaving, the UK has reduced its financial contribution, becoming the second largest net contributor to the EU budget. This has freed up resources for the UK government to spend on domestic issues.

Improving Trade Relations: Post-Brexit, the UK's balance of trade with the EU improved by ￡38 billion per year. Germany, on the other hand, saw a corresponding negative impact. The UK's international trade has improved, making it the fourth largest exporter globally as per the United Nations.

Business-Friendly Environment: Large multinational corporations are moving their headquarters to the UK due to its perceived business-friendly environment. Companies like Shell and Unilever have led the trend, attracted by the UK's more favorable business conditions.

No More Brussels Control: The UK now has full control over its laws, resources, and economic policies. It no longer has to abide by EU regulations, allowing for greater autonomy in decision-making.

Challenges and Obstacles

While the benefits are clear, rejoining the EU would come with its own challenges. The EU typically requires a lengthy negotiation process and sets certain conditions that the applicant must meet. These conditions can be extensive and may involve making significant changes to the country's policies and laws.

The UK would need to address areas such as regulations, market access, trade agreements, and internal standards to align with EU standards. Additionally, the political will and public support for rejoining the EU would be crucial considerations.

Conclusion

Rejoining the European Union for the UK is a complex and uncertain process. While legally and morally possible, it would require a significant realignment of the UK's policies and priorities to meet the EU's criteria. Given the UK's recent success with Brexit and the numerous benefits derived from leaving the EU, it seems unlikely that the UK would rejoin the EU in the near future.

The UK has made significant changes since leaving the EU, and the process of rejoining would be a substantial undertaking. The decision to rejoin would require careful consideration of both the benefits and challenges involved.