The Impact of Brexit on Gibraltar: A Year in Review
What changes has Brexit brought to Gibraltar? This small British Overseas Territory, with a unique position that it shares a border with both the European Union and the United Kingdom, has faced numerous challenges and uncertainties since the UK's decision to leave the EU. Let's delve into what has changed, exploring various aspects, including the Schengen issue, the role of supermarrets, and the potential future of EU citizenship.
Why is this Relevant?
The decision to leave the European Union is not just about the European Union itself. It's about the implications for all territories that are part of the UK but also have close ties to the EU. Gibraltar, as a territory with its own unique set of challenges and advantages, provides an interesting case study. The EU is not a country but an organization; yet, it often acts like one when it comes to territories that choose to remain within the UK's sovereignty.
The Shattered Faith and Isolation
Much of the population in Gibraltar feels that their interests were ignored by the UK government, leading to a sense of isolation and concern. This sentiment was particularly evident in the weeks and months following the Brexit vote. Trust in the British government has been shaken, and there is a growing sense that the decision to leave the EU may have had far-reaching consequences beyond the immediate economic implications.
Gibraltar's Complex Situation
On one side, Gibraltar's membership in the Schengen area ensured that the border with the EU remained open, albeit with the Britannic side closed off due to Brexit. This led to the creation of a new, symbolic border with the UK, which is likely to be temporary due to the ongoing issues with supermarket stock and testing requirements for truck drivers.
Over the past 40 years, Gibraltar has become deeply intertwined with the nearby Spanish town of La Linea, with thousands of Spaniards commuting daily to work in Gibraltar and returning home at night. This interdependence has created a unique dynamic that may face significant changes should Brexit proceed.
Concerns and Predictions
The future of Gibraltar's status is uncertain. While there is a risk of a return to frequent border shutdowns, the likelihood is low. Spain's long-standing claim over Gibraltar remains a concern, especially regarding illegal trade, such as the smuggling of cigarettes and high-duty items. Despite these issues, it's predicted that only minor changes will occur, with occasional dramatic border confrontations over fishing boats and such issues.
The most certain change will be the loss of EU citizenship for Gibraltarians. This will affect communication and travel, but the impact is likely to be more inconvenient than disruptive.
Conclusion
While the immediate impact of Brexit on Gibraltar is still unclear, many factors suggest that the region will continue to face ongoing challenges and uncertainties. The loss of EU citizenship is a serious concern, but the fundamental interdependence with La Linea and the Spanish region will likely remain.
Only time will tell how these changes will affect Gibraltar and the ongoing relationship between the UK and the EU, particularly for territories like Gibraltar that sit in a unique, often complex, position.