UK and EU Seal Landmark Post-Brexit Gibraltar Border Agreement
The deal establishes a new framework for managing the movement of people and goods across the Gibraltar–Spain frontier, one of Europe’s most politically sensitive borders since the United Kingdom left the EU in 2020. Under the agreement, checks on travelers arriving at Gibraltar’s airport and port will be aligned with Schengen-area standards, while
physical barriers at the land border with Spain are expected to be removed or significantly reduced. Spanish authorities will play a role in overseeing Schengen-related entry and exit procedures, according to officials familiar with the arrangement. British and EU negotiators described the accord as a pragmatic solution designed to safeguard economic stability and protect the daily flow of thousands of cross-border workers. Approximately 15,000 people cross between Gibraltar and Spain each day for employment and commerce. Talks over Gibraltar’s status had remained unresolved following Brexit, raising concerns about trade disruption and delays at the frontier. The new framework aims to preserve fluid movement while respecting British sovereignty over the territory. The government of United Kingdom said the agreement provides certainty and stability for Gibraltar’s residents and businesses. The European Commission welcomed the outcome, calling it a balanced solution that protects the integrity of the EU’s single market. Spain has long claimed sovereignty over Gibraltar, a British Overseas Territory since 1713 but the agreement does not alter its constitutional status. Further technical and legal steps are expected in the coming months before the framework enters into force. Source: GOV.UK