The Gibraltar and Spain Relationship in 2024: Post-Brexit Dynamics
The relationship between Gibraltar and Spain has always been a delicate issue, closely linked to the broader political landscape between the United Kingdom and Spain. In 2024, the post-Brexit world continues to shape how these two neighbours interact, particularly in light of recent geopolitical events such as the United Kingdom’s decision to return the Chagos Islands to Mauritius. This move has raised questions about the UK’s approach to territorial issues and the possible implications for Gibraltar.
While the Chagos Islands are a separate matter, the broader conversation around the UK’s overseas territories has put a spotlight on Gibraltar’s status and its relationship with Spain.
The Impact of Brexit on Gibraltar
When the United Kingdom officially left the European Union in 2020, Gibraltar was significantly impacted. As a British Overseas Territory, Gibraltar had enjoyed the benefits of being part of the EU, including free movement across its border with Spain. The post-Brexit negotiations between the UK and the EU aimed to secure a framework that would preserve this crucial aspect of Gibraltar’s relationship with Spain, ensuring that daily life for the thousands of workers who cross the border, and for residents on both sides, would not be severely disrupted.
In the immediate aftermath of Brexit, a transitional agreement was put in place to allow free movement across the Gibraltar-Spain border to continue. This has been a lifeline for Gibraltar, where nearly 15,000 people, mostly Spaniards, commute daily to work. Gibraltar’s economy is heavily reliant on this workforce, particularly in the sectors of financial services, online gaming, and tourism.
However, this transitional arrangement was not designed to be a long-term solution. Negotiations to formalise a new agreement on Gibraltar’s relationship with Spain and the wider EU have been ongoing.
Negotiations on Gibraltar’s Status in 2024
As of 2024, talks between the UK, Spain, and the EU regarding Gibraltar’s future status are still active, but a final agreement remains elusive. The key issues at the heart of these discussions include:
- Free Movement: Preserving the current arrangement that allows for the free movement of people between Gibraltar and Spain remains the top priority for both Gibraltar and the Spanish communities near the border. Any disruption to this movement could have severe economic consequences on both sides.
- Customs and Trade: While the free movement of people is the primary concern, there are also important questions about how goods will move between Gibraltar and Spain. Currently, Gibraltar is not part of the EU customs union, which complicates trade relations with its neighbours.
- Sovereignty: Although the Brexit process has reignited discussions about Gibraltar’s sovereignty, the UK government has maintained its long-standing position that Gibraltar’s future will only be determined by the will of its people. Gibraltar remains firmly committed to its status as a British Overseas Territory.
Spain’s Position
Spain has historically claimed sovereignty over Gibraltar, which has been under British control since 1713 following the Treaty of Utrecht. However, this territorial dispute has been somewhat sidelined in recent years as both sides focus on more practical matters, such as the free movement of people and economic cooperation.
Spain has shown a pragmatic approach in the post-Brexit negotiations. While it has not abandoned its claim to Gibraltar, the Spanish government has prioritised maintaining a stable relationship, especially given the interdependence of the Gibraltar economy and the surrounding region of Andalusia.
In 2024, Spain continues to advocate for joint use of Gibraltar’s airport, greater cooperation on security and law enforcement, and more involvement in environmental and economic governance. However, any suggestion of joint sovereignty has been firmly rejected by the Gibraltarian government, with broad support from its residents.
The Chagos Islands and the Question of Gibraltar
The UK’s decision to return the Chagos Islands to Mauritius has triggered debate about the future of its remaining overseas territories, including Gibraltar. In November 2023, the UK agreed to relinquish control of the Chagos Islands, ending a long-standing dispute over the archipelago. This decision was seen by some as a signal that the UK might be willing to reconsider the status of its other territories.
However, the situation with Gibraltar is fundamentally different. The Chagos Islands were forcibly depopulated in the 1960s, with the indigenous Chagossians being removed to make way for a military base. Gibraltar’s status, by contrast, has been reaffirmed through referenda in which the Gibraltarian people have overwhelmingly expressed their desire to remain British.
The return of the Chagos Islands has reignited discussions in Spain about the possibility of similar action regarding Gibraltar. However, the UK has been clear that Gibraltar’s future will not be up for negotiation without the consent of its residents. In this sense, the UK’s position on Gibraltar remains steadfast, even as it has shifted its approach to other overseas territories.
Economic and Cross-Border Cooperation
Despite the ongoing territorial dispute, Spain and Gibraltar have developed a strong economic relationship over the years. Cross-border trade and tourism are vital to both sides, with Gibraltar’s financial services and online gaming industries drawing significant numbers of Spanish workers.
In recent years, cooperation on practical matters such as tax transparency and anti-smuggling measures has improved relations. Gibraltar has introduced new tax regimes to align itself with international standards, and there is greater cooperation between Gibraltar and Spanish law enforcement agencies.
Looking forward, both Spain and Gibraltar are keen to maintain and build on this cooperation, particularly in the areas of security, environmental protection, and economic development. The EU has also played a role in encouraging collaboration, with both sides recognising that a stable and prosperous Gibraltar benefits the wider region.
Looking Ahead
As 2024 progresses, the future relationship between Gibraltar and Spain remains a topic of intense negotiation. While the territorial dispute continues to simmer in the background, both sides appear committed to reaching a practical agreement that will preserve the current cross-border arrangements and ensure economic stability.
The UK’s recent decision regarding the Chagos Islands may have prompted renewed speculation about Gibraltar’s status, but the political and historical context makes it clear that Gibraltar’s future will remain in the hands of its people. In the meantime, maintaining a constructive dialogue and building on existing cooperation will be crucial to ensuring the prosperity of both Gibraltar and the surrounding region of Spain.
As the negotiations continue, the hope is that a balanced agreement can be reached, one that respects Gibraltar’s sovereignty while also recognising the importance of its relationship with Spain.