Democracy Impacts

EP Member Seeks British Rethinking of Brexit

February 04, 2019

In a recent interview, the European Parliament’s (EP) representative on Brexit issues Guy Verhofstadt expressed optimism that the British Parliament would prevent a “no-deal” withdrawal from the EU and potentially “agree to a closer relationship” with the bloc that includes membership in a customs union and a single market.
EP Measure Seeks Ideology-Based Limit on Party Groupings

January 31, 2019

Politico reports that the European Parliament is voting this week on a measure that would limit EP political party groupings, which receive EU resources and privileges in the body, to coalitions of national parties perceived to share a “political affinity,” sparking objections that the measure targets recently formed euroskeptic party groupings.
Trade Official: Climate Action Could Boost EU Integration

January 31, 2019

AP reports that European Trade Commissioner Cecilia Malmstrom has pointed to the fight against climate change as a unifying issue that could bring the EU together in the face of skepticism about the European project across the bloc.
EC Proposes Fishing Plans in Event of Brexit “No Deal”

January 31, 2019

Reuters reports that the European Commission (EC) has prepared a set of contingency plans for EU and UK fishermen rights as part of a managed “no deal” Brexit in case the EU and UK fail to come to an agreement on Britain’s withdrawal from the bloc.
UK Official Warns EU May Object to Brexit Extension

January 31, 2019

The Guardian reports that UK Secretary for Brexit Stephen Barclay has warned that EU institutions and members could object to an extension of the Brexit process if they do not believe the UK Parliament has made clear a viable alternative way forward on Britain’s withdrawal from the bloc.
UK Parliament Rejects Amendment Seeking Brexit Delay

January 30, 2019

The UK Parliament has voted down a proposed amendment to the British government’s Brexit legislation aimed at laying the groundwork for a delay in the country’s withdrawal from the EU.
Franco-German Treaty Provokes Critiques in Brussels

January 25, 2019

Politico reports that EU leaders are expressing concern about a new treaty between Germany and France pledging enhanced cooperation, including a warning from European Council President Donald Tusk that such an agreement could threaten the EU’s framework of “mutually supportive and equal nations.”
Economist Explains Stark Nature of Divides over Brexit

January 25, 2019

Economist Andrea Hossó warns that compromise over Brexit is “impossible” due to the stark nature of the divide between those who wish for renewed national sovereignty and those who wish to support and join in the development of a nationless European superstate.
France, Germany Sign Treaty Pledging Broad Integration

January 23, 2019

French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Angela Merkel signed a new treaty this week pledging to work, in line with EU priorities, toward further integration between their two countries in the fields of the economy, defense, diplomacy, culture, and the global climate change agenda.
UK Leader Welcomes Polish Intervention on Brexit “Backstop”

January 22, 2019

Reuters reports that UK Prime Minister Theresa May has expressed interest in working with Polish Foreign Minister Jacek Czaputowicz on his suggestion that the “backstop” requirement in the Brexit deal to maintain EU regulations in Northern Ireland be limited to five years, though Ireland had already rejected any time limit on the backstop.