What's happened
The UK is close to finalising an agreement to rejoin the EU's Erasmus student mobility scheme by January 2026, aiming for participation from 2027. The move signals a shift towards closer EU relations after Brexit setbacks, amid ongoing negotiations on defense and trade agreements.
What's behind the headline?
The UK’s pursuit to rejoin Erasmus reflects a strategic shift towards repairing post-Brexit relations with the EU. While the UK’s exit was driven by cost concerns, the current negotiations indicate a recognition of the benefits of closer cooperation, especially in education and defense. The delay in defense funding agreements highlights ongoing tensions over financial contributions, but the progress on Erasmus suggests that both sides see value in rebuilding trust. This move could pave the way for broader agreements on mobility and security, signaling a pragmatic approach from the UK government. The EU’s willingness to keep SAFE open for the UK at 35% participation underscores a flexible stance, aiming to keep channels open despite disagreements. The next few weeks will be critical in determining whether these diplomatic efforts translate into tangible policy changes, potentially reshaping UK-EU relations in the near future.
What the papers say
The Guardian reports that the UK is aiming to finalise an agreement to rejoin Erasmus by January 2026, with officials indicating progress in negotiations. Politico highlights recent breakthroughs in defense funding negotiations with Canada and the EU, emphasizing that despite setbacks, cooperation remains a priority. The Independent and AP News detail the UK’s broader efforts to repair ties with the EU, including the challenges over SAFE funding, with UK officials emphasizing that negotiations are conducted in good faith. Reuters notes that the UK’s participation in SAFE remains limited to 35%, reflecting ongoing financial disagreements but a continued commitment to security cooperation.
How we got here
The UK exited Erasmus after Brexit, citing value for money concerns. Recent efforts by the UK government aim to restore closer ties with the EU, including participation in educational, trade, and defense initiatives. Negotiations have been complex, especially over financial contributions and defense cooperation, with recent breakthroughs in defense funding negotiations with Canada and the EU.
Go deeper
Common question
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Why Did the UK Decide Not to Join the EU's Defense Fund?
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