Gibraltar-Spain Border Control Changes and Its Implications
Border controls at Gibraltar to be discontinued.
After years of discussions, the UK, EU, and Spain have agreed to abolish border controls between Gibraltar and Spain, making travel between the two easier. While airport controls will continue, they will be under joint management.
Following Brexit, this decision marks a significant breakthrough in the long-standing dispute. The daily commute for the 15,000 people crossing the border for work and annual tourists visiting the area will experience smoother passage. A precise customs model will minimize the need for frequent checks on goods.
Recognizing the importance of maintaining the Schengen area's integrity and the EU single market, EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen welcomed the agreement. Spanish Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares termed it historic, as it removes the last continental European border.
British Foreign Secretary David Lammy praised the agreement as a practical solution, offering long-term planning for businesses after years of uncertainty. He ensured that the agreement preserves British sovereignty, supports Gibraltar's economy, and enables a favorable environment for businesses.
Dual Border Controls at Airport and Port
At Gibraltar's airport and port, dual border controls will be enforced, with both Gibraltar and Spanish officials executing checks. This ensures compliance with UK and EU (Schengen Area) regulations.
For individuals crossing the land border, there will be no physical checks to promote a fluid border crossing, thereby reducing border friction and facilitating daily commutes. On the other hand, physical checks on goods at the land border will be eliminated, implementing a bespoke goods and customs model to promote trade.
Positive Impact on Commuters and Tourists
- Commuters: Easing the requirement for physical checks at the land border will streamline the daily commute for thousands who cross between Gibraltar and Spain. This will strengthen economic and social bonds between the two regions.
- Tourists: Dual controls at the airport and port will allow tourists to travel smoothly between Gibraltar and EU destinations while adhering to necessary security measures. Additionally, arrangements for visas and permits will facilitate travel for both tourists and business travelers.
The agreement is set to balance the need for border security with the unique geographic realities of Gibraltar. This move enhances cooperation between the UK, Spain, and the EU.
A major sticking point remains in the ongoing negotiations between the EU and London regarding fishing rights. As Gibraltar is heavily dependent on the EU single market, it rejected Brexit with a 96% vote in the 2016 referendum. Source: ntv.de, uzh/dpa
The implementation of dual border controls at Gibraltar's airport and port, as outlined in the community policy, signifies a blend of British and Spanish regulation adherence. This change represents a crucial step in the politics of Gibraltar-Spain relations, as highlighted in the general-news.
The agreement on easing travel for commuters and tourists, a result of the new policy, aims to promote stronger economic and social bonds between the regions, a significant boost for the employment sector in both Gibraltar and Spain.
