Lorraine Williamson
Spain, the United Kingdom, and the European Union have reached a long-awaited political agreement over Gibraltar, ending years of uncertainty since Brexit.
The deal removes physical border controls while preserving sovereignty arrangements. This brings clarity for thousands of workers and businesses who rely on cross-border access each day.
Historic breakthrough after three centuries of deadlock
In a statement on X, Spain’s Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez called it “a great day for the Campo de Gibraltar,” noting:
“After three centuries without progress, the EU, United Kingdom and Spain have closed a global agreement for the benefit of citizens and our bilateral relationship with the United Kingdom — all without renouncing Spain’s claims over the isthmus and the retrocession of Gibraltar.”
The agreement is the result of intense negotiations that started back in 2021 after Gibraltar was excluded from the UK-EU Trade and Cooperation Agreement. It resolves the last major outstanding issue from Brexit concerning Gibraltar’s status.
Smooth border crossing for thousands of daily commuters
Roughly 15,000 people cross between Gibraltar and Spain each day. Many commute for work between La Línea de la Concepción and the British Overseas Territory. Without a deal, the EU’s planned entry-exit system would have created a hard border. This would have meant passport checks for every crossing, risking significant economic disruption.
Instead, the new agreement guarantees fluid movement. The long-standing physical fence (la verja) separating Gibraltar and Spain will be dismantled, removing a symbolic and practical barrier. Gibraltar will effectively join the Schengen zone for border purposes. Spanish police will carry out passport controls at Gibraltar’s airport and port, while immigration and law enforcement on Gibraltar’s territory will remain the exclusive responsibility of Gibraltar’s authorities.
Customs and trade solutions to safeguard the economy
A unique customs and goods model has been agreed to prevent onerous inspections on products crossing the border. This is expected to secure Gibraltar’s economy, which heavily depends on trade with Spain and cross-border business. The UK government estimates that without the agreement, delays could have cost hundreds of millions annually, placing additional strain on the UK taxpayer.
The deal also opens the door for Gibraltar airport to increase connectivity with EU destinations, potentially boosting tourism and commerce.
Sovereignty remains untouched
Both London and Gibraltar have underlined that the agreement does not affect sovereignty. The UK’s Foreign Secretary, David Lammy, stressed:
“We have reached an agreement which protects British sovereignty, supports Gibraltar’s economy and allows businesses to plan for the long-term once again. The UK’s commitment to Gibraltar remains as solid as the Rock itself.”
Gibraltar’s Chief Minister, Fabian Picardo, who has been closely involved in the negotiations, added:
“This conclusive political agreement will bring legal certainty to the people of Gibraltar, its businesses and to those across the region who rely on stability at the frontier. We have worked hand in glove with the UK government to deliver a deal Gibraltar wants and needs — one that will protect future generations of British Gibraltarians and does not affect our British sovereignty.”
Military autonomy protected
The agreement also secures the continued autonomy of the UK’s military presence in Gibraltar. British military facilities in the territory play a strategic role, particularly in protecting maritime routes at the entrance to the Mediterranean.
Final treaty still pending ratification
Although this political deal marks a significant step forward, a full legal treaty text still needs to be finalised and ratified by the parliaments of the UK, Spain, Gibraltar, and the EU. All parties have expressed a commitment to completing the final treaty swiftly.
The resolution is being widely welcomed as a turning point for Gibraltar after years of post-Brexit uncertainty, offering legal certainty, economic stability, and renewed cooperation across borders.
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