Key Takeaways:
- Michel Barnier, the EU's former chief Brexit negotiator, says the UK could rejoin the EU with opt-outs on Schengen and the euro.
- He argues Brexit has made the UK's problems worse, though not solely caused them.
- Barnier rules out closer ties without accepting freedom of movement, despite Keir Starmer's hopes.
- The comments come as the 10th anniversary of the Brexit vote approaches.
A Surprising Opening for a UK Return
In a major boost for pro-European campaigners, Michel Barnier—the EU's tough-talking chief Brexit negotiator—has suggested the United Kingdom could rejoin the bloc on special terms, avoiding two of its most contentious requirements: the passport-free Schengen Area and the euro currency.
Speaking ahead of the 10th anniversary of the Brexit referendum, Barnier acknowledged that the evidence that the UK had made the wrong choice in 2016 is becoming clearer "every day." But his remarks go beyond mere regret; they outline a concrete path for reconciliation.
"I am speaking about Schengen, I am speaking about the single currency: there are other member states who are not in them. It is perfectly possible to have opt-outs in these fields," Barnier stated.
What Opt-Outs Could the UK Expect?
The former French prime minister pointed to existing precedents within the EU. Ireland, for example, has an official opt-out from Schengen, while Denmark stays outside the euro. Several newer member states, including Poland and Sweden, have also not adopted the single currency yet.
However, Barnier was cautious about one key benefit: the UK rebate secured by Margaret Thatcher. He said any renegotiation of financial contributions would be "open to negotiation," but stressed that the EU's core principle of solidarity requires richer nations to support poorer ones.
The Freedom of Movement Hurdle
For British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, who has pushed for closer economic ties with the EU without restoring freedom of movement, Barnier's response was blunt. Asked if such a deal is possible, he said: "No." He added that there is no political appetite to "give any argument to the far right in France or elsewhere."
This clashes with recent warnings from Poland's foreign minister Radosław Sikorski, who said Britain should not expect a return to its old "à la carte membership."
Brexit's Lingering Damage
Barnier was careful not to blame all of the UK's current troubles on the 2016 vote, but he left little doubt about its impact:
"It would not be fair to say that the problems of the UK today are due to Brexit, but what I am sure of is that all these problems are more difficult because of Brexit."
His comments highlight how the UK's departure has complicated everything from trade to migration, even as the country struggles with economic stagnation and political volatility.
What This Means for Travelers and Expats
If the UK were to rejoin the EU while staying outside Schengen, British citizens would likely not gain the right to free movement across the bloc's internal borders. This means:
- Passport controls would remain at UK-EU borders.
- British expats in the EU would still need visas or residency permits.
- Travelers would face potential delays when crossing into Schengen states.
However, speculation is just that—no formal talks are underway. Barnier framed his remarks as "free advice" should the UK decide to ask to rejoin.
A Divided Political Landscape
The 10th anniversary of the Brexit vote has reignited fierce debate in the UK. While polls show growing regret among Leave voters, the political will to reverse the decision remains weak. Barnier's intervention could give ammunition to pro-EU campaigners, but it also underscores the many obstacles ahead.
For now, the message from Brussels is clear: the door is open, but any return will require tough negotiations—and probably, acceptance of freedom of movement.