The European Commission has put forward a proposal to initiate negotiations with the United Kingdom aimed at facilitating the movement of young people between the two regions following Brexit. The UK's departure from the EU in 2016 has had a significant impact on mobility, particularly affecting opportunities for young individuals to live, work, and study on both sides of the Channel.
Under the proposed agreement, EU and UK citizens aged between 18 and 30 would be allowed to move freely, work, and study in each other's territories for up to four years. This initiative seeks to restore the pre-Brexit rights that allowed UK nationals to live and work in the EU and vice versa.
One key aspect of the proposal is the equal treatment of EU and UK students in terms of university tuition fees. Currently, most EU students face high international tuition fees in the UK, ranging from £11,400 to £38,000 per year, which act as a deterrent for many. The proposed agreement aims to address this disparity and promote educational exchanges between the regions.
The Commission's recommendation will now be reviewed by EU member countries, who must approve it before negotiations with the UK can commence. The UK government has expressed openness to such agreements, highlighting existing Youth Mobility Schemes with countries like Australia and New Zealand.
While the UK has its own Youth Mobility Scheme, the Commission believes that its proposal offers a more comprehensive framework for youth exchanges. The British government, on the other hand, emphasizes the importance of reciprocal opportunities for young British individuals in partner countries.
Overall, the proposed agreement between the EU and the UK aims to enhance opportunities for young people to gain valuable experiences, foster cultural exchanges, and pursue educational and professional development across borders.
For more updates on Brexit, visit AP's Brexit coverage.
